In its broadest sense, restraint is about preventing individuals from doing something they wish to do, including placing limits on people’s will or ability. There are a host of issues and perspectives to consider if we are to have an intelligent debate about the use of restraint. The practice tends to grab the media spotlight and it is not uncommon for coverage to centre on the abuse of an individual or group of older people, typically living in care or nursing homes, or during a stay in hospital. When we hear or read about the restraint of older people strong feelings can be raised