The terms of reference of the group were to review the practice of patient escorts in the context of the future development of mental health services and, in particular, the provisions of the Mental Health Bill – since enacted to become the Mental Health Act, 2001 – and to make recommendations in relation to future practice. Its report on patient escorts has been completed and circulated to members of the working group. Key recommendations and guidelines on the role of general practitioners, gardaí, nurses and other members of the multidisciplinary team are set down in the report. Training needs are identified in the areas of de-escalation techniques, risk assessment, breakaway and control and restraint.