Calm Breathing Therapies

Risk & Emergency Protocol

Calm Breathing Therapies – Risk and Emergency Protocol

This protocol sets out our procedures for managing risk during remote therapy sessions and responding to emergencies.

1. Collecting Key Information
At or before the first session we collect:
• Client’s full name, date of birth, address and contact details.
• Name and contact details of the client’s GP.
• An emergency contact (family member or trusted person) and their phone number.
• Client’s current location at the start of each session (especially when away from usual address).

2. Assessing Risk
• We routinely assess risk as part of the initial assessment and throughout therapy, using standard measures and clinical judgement.
• If the client reports active suicidal ideation, self‑harm or risk to others, we explore the context, protective factors and develop a safety plan.
• If the risk is high or imminent, we will pause therapy and follow emergency steps.

3. Emergency Steps
If we believe a client is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others during a session:
1. Advise the client to contact emergency services (999) or attend Accident & Emergency.
2. If the client is unwilling or unable to do so, contact emergency services on their behalf and provide the client’s location.
3. Contact the emergency contact and/or GP if necessary.
4. Document the situation and actions taken.
5. Notify the clinical supervisor as soon as practicable.

4. Crisis Between Sessions
We are not an emergency service and cannot guarantee immediate support outside scheduled sessions. Clients are advised to contact their GP, local crisis team, NHS 111 or emergency services if they experience a crisis between sessions. We will provide local crisis contact numbers on our website.

5. Follow‑Up
After an emergency, we will liaise with the client and other relevant professionals to assess ongoing suitability for therapy and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.