Risk is considered at assessment and throughout therapy. This protocol explains the information needed for safe remote work and what may happen when an immediate concern arises.
1. Key safety information
Before or at the start of therapy I may collect your full name, date of birth, home address, telephone number, GP details and an emergency contact. Your current physical location may be confirmed at the start of a remote session, particularly if you are away from home.
2. Assessing and planning for risk
I ask proportionate questions about self-harm, suicidal thoughts, harm to others, abuse, neglect and protective factors where relevant. We may develop an individual safety plan and agree who can be contacted if concerns increase.
3. Immediate danger during a session
If I believe there is an immediate danger to you or another person, I will prioritise safety. Depending on the circumstances, I may:
- Encourage you to call 999 or attend A&E.
- Contact emergency services and provide your current location if you cannot or will not do so.
- Contact your GP, emergency contact or relevant safeguarding service where necessary and lawful.
- Document the concern, decision and actions taken.
- Seek urgent professional or supervisory consultation where this does not delay action.
4. Between sessions
This practice cannot provide crisis monitoring or an immediate response between appointments. If you need urgent mental health help, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option, request an urgent GP appointment or use your local crisis service. If you cannot keep yourself or someone else safe, call 999 or go to A&E. Samaritans are available free on 116 123.
5. Follow-up and suitability
After a significant incident, we will review safety, the support around you and whether this service remains appropriate. Therapy may be paused while urgent or specialist care is arranged.
Questions about this document?
Email calmbreathingtherapies1@gmail.com or call 07957 353 110.