Liverpool’s multi-agency self-harm practice guidance
This practice guidance has been developed by the Liverpool Safeguarding Children’s Partnership as a reference guide for all agencies and practitioners who come into contact with children, young people and their families. It is intended as a guide to supporting children/ young people who have thoughts of, are about to or have self-harmed.
The multi-agency self-harm practice guidance will support practitioners in keeping children safe by outlining:
- What self-harm is;
- The triggers for self-harm; and
- How to support children and young people who self-harm.
Agencies and practitioners must refer to the Liverpool levels of need framework to help them decide the level of need and the most appropriate assessment and interventions including early help and referral to Children’s Social Care. Where there are serious or complex needs or where there are safeguarding concerns, practitioners should consult with their designated lead for safeguarding and, where appropriate, make a referral to Children’s Social Care or initiate an Early Help Meeting to coordinate support.
