10.1 We recognise that people experiencing domestic abuse may also be at increased risk of self-harm or suicide and will respond with care, dignity, and urgency whenever concerns about suicide risk arise.
10.2 Where there is a suicide risk but no immediate danger we will:
- Work with the person to identify supportive people or services they trust.
- Provide information about specialist domestic abuse and mental health support.
- Agree a plan for ongoing contact and follow up.
- Ensure the person knows they are not alone and that help is available.
10.3 When a resident discloses suicidal thoughts or when staff have reasonable grounds for concern, we will:
- Listen with empathy and without judgement, acknowledging their feelings and allowing the person to speak freely.
- Explain that information may need to be shared to keep them safe.
- Assess immediate safety by sensitively exploring whether they have current thoughts of suicide, a plan, or access to means.
- Seek urgent support from appropriate services if there is immediate risk.
- Follow internal safeguarding procedures as soon as possible.
10.4 The council will work collaboratively with safeguarding partners, domestic abuse services, and mental health professionals to ensure coordinated support and risk management where there is an identified suicide risk.
