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About Doug

The safety expert
who makes force
the last resort.

Doug Melia stands at the forefront of personal safety and physical intervention. He focuses on creating positive environments where physical intervention is a last resort, and equips staff with the knowledge to safely manage challenging behaviour.

Doug Melia
Use of Force SpecialistSoft Restraint ExpertPublic Speaker
27+Years directing Safer Handling
20k+Followers on LinkedIn
3Continents with live programmes
6+Frontline sectors trained
Professional Credentials

Boards, advisory roles
and global contracts.

Doug maintains a robust portfolio of board positions and advisory roles, which keeps his speaking and training grounded in current practice.

Board Member

Serves on the board of the ICM Institute of Conflict Management.

Use of Force Advisor

Freelance advisor for the IAHSS UK Chapter.

Safeguarding Solutions Specialist

Contracts with BitePRO to deliver preventative strategies globally.

Pilot Coordinator

Runs soft restraint pilots, including a Juvenile Training Centre and forensic hospital in South Australia.

Maritime Consultant

Works with Isca Maritime Security Services, with courses recognised by the Bahamas maritime authority.

Author & Presenter

Author of That’s Not Safer Handling… and presenter of the They Lie! video series.

Education & Qualifications

Practical experience.
Rigorous training.

Doug backs nearly three decades of frontline work with academic and vocational qualifications.

  • Cardiff University Bond Solon Expert Witness Certificate
  • BTEC Level 3 in Use of Force & Physical Skills (NFPS, Lilleshall)
  • NEBOSH certified in health and safety
Giving Back

Community safety work

Doug volunteers personal safety and self-defence training for people experiencing homelessness in Preston, Burnley and Manchester, helping them understand their rights and reduce their risk.

  • Free personal safety sessions
  • Know-your-rights guidance
  • Practical risk reduction
Books & Media

Straight talking.
On page and screen.

The They Lie! series

Doug breaks down the myths around use of force law and what actually works in a crisis.

Watch on YouTube
Doug MeliaThat’s Not Safer Handling…The book
Written by Doug

That’s Not Safer Handling…

A practical guide to spotting poor practice. Recognise when physical interventions cross the line, challenge unsafe routines and start the conversations that reduce restraint.

Get the book
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