Self-harm (including eating disorders), or threats of self-harm, may be indicative of a serious mental or emotional disturbance, and the possibility that it may be caused by abuse or neglect should not be overlooked.
Whenever a child or young person is known to have either made a suicide attempt or been involved in self harming behaviour, consideration must be given to making a referral to Children’s Social Care as a child in need
The discharge of any child or young person who has been admitted to hospital as a result of self-harming behaviour must involve co-ordinated planning with community services, including Children’s Social Care and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. Where it appears that the child or young person may be at risk of significant harm if discharged, consideration must be given to instituting safeguarding procedures.
