Is the pobroll® a Mechanical Restraint? Let’s Clarify.

In the field of healthcare—particularly when supporting individuals experiencing distress—professionals often face the difficult challenge of balancing dignity, safety, and effective care. One recurring concern is the use of restraint and how to minimise it while still ensuring both patient and carer safety. This raises an important question: is the pobroll® a mechanical restraint, or is it something different entirely?

The pobroll® is a tool designed to offer comfort and support without resorting to restrictive measures. But an important question often arises:

Is the pobroll® a mechanical restraint? The short answer is no, but let’s explore why.

What the pobroll® Is: A Gentle, Supportive Aid

The pobroll® is designed as a soft, cocoon-like wrap that carers manually hold and adjust to help individuals feel safe, especially during times of agitation, distress, or confusion. It’s commonly used in dementia care and other settings where calming support is needed without immobilisation.

Key Features:

✔️ Gentle containment that offers comfort and reassurance

✔️ Helps prevent unintentional harm—both to the individual and to carers

✔️ Supports interventions without inhibiting freedom of movement

What the pobroll® Is Not: A Restraint

It’s essential to be clear about what the pobroll® does not do:

❌ No straps, zippers, Velcro, or fastenings that hold someone in place

❌ Does not immobilise—the carer maintains control and adjusts it in real-time

❌ Not classified as mechanical restraint under the Care Act 2014

In essence, the pobroll® is not used to restrain, but to comfort.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While many people ask, “Is the pobroll® a mechanical restraint?”, it’s important to clarify that it does not meet the legal definition of mechanical restraint. However, its use still falls under broader ethical and legal frameworks when applied in certain contexts.

If the pobroll® is used with someone who lacks the capacity to consent, it may be considered a restrictive practice. In such cases, its use must comply with:

• The Mental Capacity Act 2005

• The Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019, including Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS)

This ensures that care remains ethical, legal, and person-centred.

Compassionate Innovation in Care

At its core, the pobroll® is about dignified, compassionate, and ethical care. It’s a tool that supports safety and comfort—without resorting to coercion or restriction. For care teams seeking alternatives to traditional physical restraints, the pobroll® offers an innovative approach that prioritises the person’s well-being.

Could this change the way your team delivers care?

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Get in touch to learn more or request a demo