The nine-step safety framework gives parents, carers and frontline practitioners a clear way to respond when a child is self-harming, moving from staying calm and listening through to safety planning, coping strategies and urgent crisis support. It is a printable self-harm support poster for use at home, in schools or in direct work sessions.
Knowing what to say when a child has hurt themselves or says they want to self-harm can be difficult, especially when adults feel frightened or unsure. The PDF sets out a simple, child-focused response that helps adults stay present, talk gently, validate feelings and avoid judgement, blame or minimising the young person’s distress.
The infographic is organised into nine numbered actions: stay calm and present, talk openly, show empathy, keep them safe, support healthy coping strategies, encourage professional help, create a safety plan, be patient, and look after yourself too. Each point includes brief practical wording that can be understood quickly in a stressful moment.
Parents, foster carers, kinship carers, teachers, pastoral staff, youth workers and social workers could use it as a self-harm safety reminder, a conversation prompt with a child or teenager, or a handout after a safeguarding discussion. It is especially suited to adults supporting children or teens who are self-injuring, cutting, scratching, burning, or expressing thoughts of suicide.
The bottom section explains when to seek urgent help, including if a child talks about wanting to die, has a suicide plan, has made a recent serious attempt, or feels at immediate risk. The wording keeps the focus on safety, connection and timely professional support while reminding adults that their own wellbeing matters too.
