Police called over 'inappropriate restraint techniques' at Motherwell school

An investigation is under way into the alleged use of inappropriate restraint techniques at a school for pupils with additional support needs.

North Lanarkshire Council contacted police after video evidence emerged from Clydeview School in Motherwell.

It is understood a staff member has been suspended over the footage.

Clydeview provides learning and support for children aged five to 12.

Inspectors called for a number of improvements at the school following its latest review.

The council said it was confident that there was no risk to pupils following the alleged incidents, understood to date back to last year.

A spokeswoman said: Video evidence has come to light showing what appears to be inappropriate use of restraint and the deployment of inappropriate restraint techniques involving a small number of pupils at Clydeview School.

The safety and well-being of children in our care is our primary concern and, on being presented with this material, we took immediate steps to launch a formal investigation.

Given the nature of some of the video evidence, we also immediately contacted Police Scotland.

Both of these investigations are at an early stage and we will keep parents updated as they progress.

The safety of children is paramount and we are confident that there is no risk to children attending the school.''

A police spokeswoman said: An investigation is under way after Police Scotland was made aware by the local authority of concerns about the conduct of staff at a school in North Lanarkshire.

Inquiries, which are at an early stage, are under way.''