Training MPS officers for excited delirium (ED) or acute behavioural disturbance (ABD)

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.22.022620

I note you seek access to the following information:

1. The training of your force regarding excited delirium (ED) or acute behavioural disturbance (ABD)
2. When officers have dealt with ED/ABD, is it recorded anywhere?
3. Is it required to use a Taser with someone who is exhibiting ED/ABD symptoms, and if so, what are the recorded numbers of such a use?
4. When was training first introduced regarding ED/ABD, and when were the latest updates on said training?
5. Who are the expert police trainers on ED/ABD in your force?

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

Q1 - The training of your force regarding excited delirium (ED) or acute behavioural disturbance (ABD)

Since 1997 all officers in the MPS received training on ED during their foundation course. This then progressed to training videos such as “Considerations for Safer Restraint.” SLAM (South London and Maudsley Hospital). In 2017, 2019, 2021 all officers in the MPS received the National ABD package produced by SDAR.

Q2 - When officers have dealt with ED/ABD, is it recorded anywhere?

When dealing with any incident, officers are required to record the incident. The more complex the incident the greater the level of recording. For example if an officer uses force on a person to arrest them they are required to complete comprehensive notes by form of EAB or MG11 to justify the force. Officers are now required to complete a Use of Force form alongside any notes written.

Q3 - Is it required to use a Taser with someone who is exhibiting ED/ABD symptoms, and if so, what are the recorded numbers of such a use?

Using force, whether it is the use of a Taser, Baton Strike, PAVA or empty hand skills, requires the officer to justify the use of this force in the circumstances. Officers are trained in the principles of Use of force and it is for that officer to decide when and how that force is used and justify said force.

Q4 - When was training first introduced regarding ED/ABD, and when were the latest updates on said training?

1997, The Metropolitan Police Service was the first service in the country to implement training like this. The latest update was 2021.

Q5 - Who are the expert police trainers on ED/ABD in your force?

Public and Personal Safety Instructors (previously known as Officer Safety Instructors) are all trained in the delivery of the content of ABD and Safer Restraint.