New Zealand Human Rights Commission Submission to the CAT in relation to NZ’s 6th periodic review continuing to use seclusion at much higher rates than the rest of the country. Māori are significantly more likely than non-Māori to experience seclusion. In 2013 of the 768 people (aged 20 to 64) secluded in adult services, 32 percent were Māori.96 179. There have been improvements in reporting and transparency around the use of seclusion, including closer monitoring and regular publication of data. The Ministry of Health has published guidance on the use of seclusion and night safety procedures in mental health inpatient services. The Ministry also advises that further guidelines on the use of restraint and seclusion practices are planned for 2015, which will have an increased emphasis on a human rights approach to the provision of treatment and the continued reduction of restrictive practices such as seclusion and restraint. However, there are still indications that a small number of patients are secluded for lengthy periods. 180. The Canterbury DHB (“CDHB”) has acknowledged that seclusion is not therapeutic and can have a traumatizing effect. It has made a concerted effort of the past five years to eliminate the use of seclusion in their facilities. 181. CDHB has adopted an approach based on the Six Core Strategies©97 to work towards seclusion elimination. This process includes:  Leadership; clinical leaders are actively involved with staff in the implementation of new models of care including supporting alternatives to seclusion. Environmental changes have taken place which has allowed the development of small high care areas where staff are able to provide support and treatment for highly distressed consumers.  Use of data: Before implementing seclusion reduction strategies a number of staff raised concerns that less seclusion use would increase risk to consumers and staff. Data has shown, however, that as seclusion use has reduced so have injuries to consumers and staff. This data is a powerful motivator for all staff.  Workforce Development; Training and supporting clinicians in the use of all therapeutic activities which support consumers with managing their distress is part of the CDHB training programme. 96 Sensory modulation is one of the Ibid. United States of America by the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors Medical Directors Council (NASMHPD) 97 68