Safety Plan

When to Use

Use whenever a client presents with suicidal ideation, self-harm, or significant risk. The safety plan is a collaborative, brief intervention that provides a structured hierarchy of coping strategies and support contacts for use during crisis. It should be developed as a priority when risk is identified, not deferred to a later session.

How to Introduce

Frame as a practical tool: 'I want to make sure you have a plan in place for the difficult moments when things feel overwhelming. Let's work through this together so you have clear steps to follow when you're struggling. Having a plan makes it more likely you'll use it when you need it.'

Adaptations

For clients who minimise risk, gently explore their experience and validate that having a plan is a sensible precaution. For those who have used safety plans before, review what worked and what did not. Ensure the plan is accessible, whether on their phone, as a card in their wallet, or given to a trusted person. Update regularly as circumstances change.

A safety plan is not a substitute for comprehensive risk assessment or appropriate clinical escalation. If risk is imminent and the client cannot commit to using the plan, more intensive intervention may be required. Do not use as a box-ticking exercise; it must be genuinely collaborative and personalised.

Clinical Tips

The most effective safety plans are specific and personalised. Generic advice like 'call a friend' is less useful than 'call Sarah on 07xxx, she knows about my difficulties and said I can call anytime.' Practise using the plan in session through role-play or visualisation. Review and update the plan regularly, particularly when circumstances change or after a crisis episode.