Becky Gillespie @icarsbecky.bsky.social · 12/06/2026@ris-law.bsky.social @jentwright.bsky.social @droliverlewis.bsky.social @stevebroach.bsky.social @bethparr.bsky.social @olliepersey.bsky.social @oliverconway.bsky.social 010
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 12/06/2026GIFT ARTICLE 'Children as young as four locked away for hours in school ‘seclusion rooms’ The 100 accounts were collected by the International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion, which plans to submit them to the United Nations in the autumn... inews.co.uk/news/childre...inews.co.ukChildren as young as four locked away for hours in school 'seclusion rooms'Exclusive investigation finds isolation rooms now used in 90% of secondary schools, with disabled children worst affected and some developing suicidal thoughts 032
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 12/06/2026“These accounts are a damning indictment of Westminster’s failure to act on seclusion as a disciplinary practice in England’s schools,” says Becky Gillespie who heads ICARS’ UK division. “The harm to children and families is horrifying.” inews.co.uk/news/i-found...inews.co.uk'I found my SEND son sobbing': Inside the damaging school isolation roomsDistraught students, soiled clothes and suicide threats - families' testimonies expose the 'Wild West' of school isolation rooms 022
Reposted by Becky GillespieRook Irwin Sweeney @ris-law.bsky.social · 27/02/2026We have been instructed to send a letter before claim to the Secretary of State for Education, challenging the Government’s SEND reforms consultation on the basis that it is unfair and irrational. Further details here: rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/first-steps-...rookirwinsweeney.co.ukFirst steps are taken in judicial review challenge of the Secretary of State for Education’s SEND reform consultation | Rook Irwin Sweeney - Public Law. Human Rights. 032
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 24/12/2025While children across England unwrap presents this Christmas, disabled children are unpacking something else: fear. The fear of going back to school. Because for too many disabled children, school isn’t a place of safety or inclusion. #AgainstRestraint 0105
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 06/12/2025📢ICARS Person(s) of the Year 2025 Keith Cooper and Will Stewart 🏆 ICARS is proud to recognise Keith Cooper and Will Stewart as our Person(s) of the Year for 2025. Their national reporting has reshaped public understanding of the harms faced by disabled children in England’s education system. 254
Reposted by Becky GillespieBillie Jean Sweeney @billiejsweeney.bsky.social · 06/12/2025Great journalism, as practiced by Keith Cooper and Will Stewart today, and the investigative team at the Hartford Courant 25 years ago, serves the public interest, defends the most vulnerable and makes a difference. 194
Becky Gillespie @icarsbecky.bsky.social · 19/09/2025"The UK placed 37th out of 38 OECD countries on this measure" 010
Becky Gillespie @icarsbecky.bsky.social · 12/08/2025@droliverlewis.bsky.social @caoilfhionn.bsky.social @jentwright.bsky.social @oliverconway.bsky.social 010
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 12/08/2025The children have spoken. England's children are telling the world what happened to them. It’s time England's lawmakers started listening and acting. #AgainstRestraint 11410
Reposted by Becky GillespieThe i Paper @theipaper.com · 12/08/2025Vulnerable children have been left with “terrible” injuries and trauma because of their treatment by staff at a taxpayer-funded private special school, The i Paper has been told 🔴 @KeithCooper1973 reports trib.al/wEssfQZ 087
Reposted by Becky GillespieAdam Dance @adamjamesdance.bsky.social · 09/06/2025Tonight at 9pm on Channel 4, Jamie’s Dyslexia Revolution airs — and I’m so proud to have been featured. As someone with dyslexia, it means the world to see Jamie Oliver championing this issue. Please tune in and be part of the revolution. #DyslexiaRevolution #ComeOnBridget 151
Reposted by Becky GillespieRook Irwin Sweeney @ris-law.bsky.social · 21/05/2025Very proud of our lawyers Jennifer Wright @jentwright.bsky.social and Katie Sinclair, finalists in this year's Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year awards - Jennifer for Public Law and Katie for Legal Aid Newcomer. A testament to their fantastic work for our legal aid clients @lalyawards.bsky.social #LALY25 063
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 05/04/2025🧵 In an English classroom governed by rigid behaviour policies, a child’s distress is overlooked, not because no one sees her, but because the system doesn't allow space for understanding it. Her torn drawing is more than sadness, it’s the fallout of punitive behaviour policies 👇 #AgainstRestraint 186
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 10/04/2025This is what £70,000 of taxpayers’ money on ‘de-escalation and restraint’ training gets you. ICARS obtained this data via FOI (2018–2023) and submitted it to the SEND National Crisis Inquiry. Another disabled child restrained. This is systemic. Gov’t must act. www.bbc.com/news/article...bbc.comAutistic 12-year-old 'brutally' restrained in school calming roomThe way the boy was held on the floor in a special school was unlawful, a use-of-force expert tells BBC. 1114
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 13/04/2025A primary school child was left alone in a school toilet for 3+ hrs. No food. No water. Staff lied. There’ll be hearings. But under new guidance? Nothing changes for kids—just more £ for the Restraint Industrial Complex. #AgainstRestraint bit.ly/3RdF2Onintmirror.co.ukBoy left in school toilet for over 3 hours without food or drink, hearing toldA primary school boy was left in a school toilet cubicle on his own and without food, water or supervision from 11.30am through to 3pm, a hearing has been told 032
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 04/04/2025In England, “good order and discipline” are used to justify restraint, seclusion / isolation. Disabled children are harmed — not helped — by this abuse of power. Manifestation of disability is not bad behaviour. #AgainstRestraint 053
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 29/03/2025If harm keeps happening, it’s not a system that’s broken — it’s a system working exactly as designed. Restraint and seclusion aren’t accidental. They’re embedded. Time to dismantle the machine. 🧡 #WhatsBehindTheHold #AgainstRestraint 092
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 29/03/2025Coming April 2025: The “What’s Behind the Hold” Survey We’re calling on families in England to share their lived experience of the training behind restraint and seclusion in English schools. Because behind every hold, there’s a child A family A story that deserves to be heard #WhatsBehindTheHold 022
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 27/03/2025If these restraint techniques are “safe,” why is this English Multi Academy Trust monitoring children’s breathing during use? This shows the risk to life for the disabled and neurodivergent children they’re used on. When breathing must be monitored, safety is already compromised. #AgainstRestraint 051
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 26/03/2025Let’s be clear. Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) is not for neurodivergent students who do not have a learning disability. So why are millions in taxpayer money being spent to train as many schools as possible in PBS ? #RevenueForRestraint #WhatsBehindTheHold 044
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 26/03/2025From the Irish Joint Committee on Disability Matters: "Behavioural interventionist therapies... cannot uphold the UNCRPD principles of autonomy, dignity, right to identity, and freedom from non-consensual or degrading treatment." #RestraintForRevenue #WhatsBehindTheHold 034
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 26/03/2025The T-wrap hold was removed from training in 2020. Yet in 2025, it’s still being used in schools and listed in behaviour policies across England. Why? Because restraint training is unregulated—no oversight, no accountability, no one watching. 👀 #RestraintForRevenue #WhatsBehindTheHold 062
Reposted by Becky GillespieBillie Jean Sweeney @billiejsweeney.bsky.social · 26/03/2025Support @againstrestraint.com 022
Reposted by Becky GillespieBillie Jean Sweeney @billiejsweeney.bsky.social · 26/03/2025The abusive use of restraints stems directly from a lack of training and oversight. It puts vulnerable ppl at grave risk. The character of a society is always illustrated in how it protects vulnerable ppl. Or how it does not. 173
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 15/03/2025📢 Emma Dalmayne, CEO of Autistic Inclusive Meets (@aimautistic.bsky.social) and part of the ICARS Team on Sky News with her son Damien. ⚠️ This report discusses mental health & suicide. #MentalHealth #DisabilityRights #AgainstRestraint 🔗 Watch here: youtube.com/watch?v=SYnm...youtube.comIncreasing pressure for autism mental health servicesYouTube video by Sky News 1136
Reposted by Becky GillespieThinking Person's Guide to Autism @thinkingautism.com · 06/03/2025"When we ask for accommodations, we are not asking for special treatment or being selfish. We are simply advocating for our needs to be met so that we can fully participate and contribute to the world around us." -The Autistic Teacher. www.facebook.com/autisticteac... #neurodiversity #autismfacebook.comThe Autistic TeacherThe Autistic Teacher, London. 68,156 likes · 7,107 talking about this. Autistic and proud! Sharing insight and understanding to help the autistic community. 110629
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 13/03/2025CW: Child Abuse. The video shows Alex Cornelius, a non-speaking 10-year-old autistic child, seemingly being slapped by his special education teacher. www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/v...cbsnews.comVideo shows North Texas teachers allegedly abusing autistic student; investigation underway"The District is aware of allegations regarding teacher misconduct in a special education classroom at Millsap Elementary School." 112
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 09/03/2025ICARS appreciate the concern regarding the video of a 12-year-old SEN student being restrained in a London school. At present, this is the only comment ICARS will be making. Our focus remains on supporting the family and advocating for necessary legislative protections. #AgainstRestraint 063
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 03/03/2025Blanket behavior policies don’t ‘manage’ behavior—they erase disabled children’s needs. Children deserve equity, not restraint and seclusion. It’s time to dismantle policies that harm. #AgainstRestraint 0166
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 03/03/2025This shouldn’t have to be said, but before supporting any proposed legislation, ask for the text and read it first. A good title doesn’t guarantee good policy. Dig into the details—who benefits, who is harmed, and what the long-term impact is. In advocacy, due diligence is everything. #ReadTheBill 061
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 01/03/2025📢 ICARS Team Announcement! 🚨 We’re thrilled to welcome Kieran Rose as our Autistic Rights, Identity & Research Lead! 🎉 A respected advocate, researcher, and author, Kieran has been a longtime ICARS consultant, bringing vital insights into the autistic experience. Join us in welcoming him! 💪✨ 1123
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 27/02/2025We are absolutely thrilled! A huge thank you to Lives In The Balance for answering our call to action, and to all the dedicated advocates, parents, and members of the SEA Committee who worked tirelessly to make this a reality. This shows that collective advocacy can change lives #AgainstRestraint 196
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 25/02/2025Watch Jack and Lea’s story here: youtu.be/gxRBdLZIS3k Follow Lea’s advocacy: FB, IG, TikTok: @togetherisbetter.uk X: @2gevabetterukyoutu.beMandate wearable cameras for staff in residential special schools and in care homes.YouTube video by Together Is Better 121
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 25/02/2025🧵 TRIGGER WARNING: DESCRIPTION OF INJURIES TO A CHILD Another Autistic Child Brutalised in an English School—Let's Demand Accountability and Protection for Our Children! Emma Dalmayne CEO of Autistic Inclusive Meets and ICARS Team has launched an urgent petition. www.change.org/p/another-au...change.orgSign the PetitionAnother Autistic Child Brutalised In School! Make Body Cams For Staff Mandatory! 164
Reposted by Becky GillespieAutistic Inclusive Meets @aimautistic.bsky.social · 25/02/2025www.mylondon.news/news/uk-worl...mylondon.newsMore than 77k sign petition for CCTV in schools after autistic child attackedThe child's teaching assistant pleaded guilty to assaulting them last year 063
Reposted by Becky GillespieOliver Conway @oliverconway.bsky.social · 25/02/2025I saw my client in shackles last week in hospital. My client was unable to walk due to medical complications following birth but their 3 private prison guards needed the shackles for their own “safety” grotesque. 236
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 22/02/2025📢 ICARS Announcement: Welcoming David Gray-Hammond! 🎉 @emergentdivergence.com Since 2020, David Gray-Hammond has been a valued collaborator in ICARS' mission to end restraint and seclusion. 🧵 3225
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 22/02/2025📢 ICARS Announcement: Welcoming Emma Dalmayne to the Team! @aimautistic.bsky.social Since 2020, Emma has been a key ally in our fight to end restraint & seclusion. A fierce advocate for autistic rights, she has exposed harm, amplified neurodivergent voices & pushed for systemic change. 🧵 2198
Reposted by Becky GillespieOliver Conway @oliverconway.bsky.social · 21/02/2025If your not watching #c4news appalled you should be. Savage cruelty to pregnant women. 062
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 19/02/2025The article "Children ‘at risk of harm’ in SEND schools that charge the state up to £116,000 in fees" from the weekend is now in today’s i Paper @theipaper.com Grab your copy and read about the urgent issues surrounding restraint in SEND schools. @kijcooper1973.bsky.social #RestraintForRevenue 031
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 17/02/2025Day 2, 'Children ‘at risk of harm’ in SEND schools charging taxpayer fees of up to £116k' by @kijcooper1973.bsky.social is again the top-read story in @theipaper.com. Parents and the public care about the harms disabled children face in schools. This issue isn’t going away—and neither are we! 022
Reposted by Becky GillespieVaila @vaila.bsky.social · 16/02/2025Children being restrained as a daily occurrence Children who say they don’t feel safe at school Children with PTSD from being restrained = £34 million pound profit Good or Outstanding Ofsted ratings It should be a much bigger scandal than it is. 043
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 17/02/2025📢 Ofsted finds pupils at risk of harm in SEND schools run by Witherslack, despite taxpayer fees of up to £116k. "The proprietor has not ensured that all staff have the knowledge and experience they need..." Full story via @theipaper ⬇️ 🔗 inews.co.uk/news/educati... #RestraintForRevenue 011
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 16/02/2025Three Ofsted reports in just three weeks have raised serious concerns about the use of restraint in Witherslack schools. England’s Children’s Commissioner and MPs must go beyond concern—meaningful action is needed to protect disabled children. #RestraintForRevenue #AgainstRestraint @theipaper.com 0136
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 16/02/2025The DfE claims it will take 'swift enforcement action' on restraint in SEND schools, including closures. Why did it take years of harm for action? #RestraintForRevenue Children ‘at risk of harm’ in SEND schools charging taxpayer fees of up to £116k, i Paper, Feb 16, 2025. @kijcooper1973.bsky.social 042
Reposted by Becky GillespieICARS - International Coalition Against Restraint and Seclusion @againstrestraint.com · 16/02/2025Currently the number 1 story in The I Paper @theipaper.com The public cares, and so should policymakers. It's time for real legislative change to protect children from harmful restraint and seclusion. #RestraintForRevenue 174
Reposted by Becky GillespieBillie Jean Sweeney @billiejsweeney.bsky.social · 16/02/2025Abusive and excessive use of restraints harms society’s most vulnerable people. When restraints are used without proper training or human regard, they cause emotional anguish, physical suffering and even deaths My friends at @againstrestraint.com are protecting against these abuses of human rights 0126
