<p>The level of aggression confronting staff in learning disability services is a major concern (Rees and Lehane 1996). Members of staff face a greater risk of encountering aggressive behaviour compared to their counterparts in other fields (Emerson and Hatton 2003, McKenzie 1999). Both aggression and assault are common forms of challenging behaviour which are increasingly likely to be encountered in community settings (Qureshi and Alborz 1992).</p>