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Cell-like seclusion room 'outmoded and outdated'

Author
Hannah Bartlett,
Publish Date
Sat, 15 Oct 2016, 7:31AM
The time out room at Miramar Central School (Supplied)
The time out room at Miramar Central School (Supplied)

Cell-like seclusion room 'outmoded and outdated'

Author
Hannah Bartlett,
Publish Date
Sat, 15 Oct 2016, 7:31AM

As the Chief Ombudsman launches an investigation, the practice of locking school children in a darkened room as punishment is being blasted as outmoded and outdated.

The probe was announced after it was revealed at least two students with autism were locked in a 'time-out room' - likened to a cell - at Miramar Central School.

The school has stopped using the room and the Ministry of Education launched an investigation of its own, the details of which are due to be released on Friday.

Trish Grant , Director of Advocacy at IHC, is welcoming the Ombudsman's announcement of an inquiry.

However, Grant said, "there is some urgency in these matters, and we're sorry that it's taken this long for leaders across the sector to show interest and have a response."

She points out that an autistic boy's mother complained in July, and yet it's taken until now to hold the school to account.

She also says the use of a seclusion room at a school in Wellington is a children's rights issue, not just a disability issue, but is seeking input into the Ombudsman's investigation.

"We'd like to be part of that inquiry because we have information we'd like to add to the inquiry, and we'd certainly like to be able to have input into the recommendations."

Chief Ombudsman Judge Peter Boshier said the probe will look at allegations about the use of the rooms in two schools, the actions of the schools concerned, the extent of the practice, and any related actions or omissions of government agencies.

The Commissioner for Children will assist with the investigation.

Judge Boshier said he will ask the Ministry of Education to issue an advisory to schools requiring any use of seclusion in schools be discontinued pending the outcome of the investigation.

 

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