Equipping Schools for Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention
Empowering staff to support mental health through A Child’s Voice® programmes, featured on BBC Radio Kent.
About The A Childs Voice ® model
Our Mission: Reducing Self-Harm & Suicide Risk in Children
About the A Child’s Voice® Model
The A Child’s Voice® Model is a specialized approach designed to nurture and amplify the unique voices of children. This model emphasises understanding, respecting, and fostering each child’s individual expression, encouraging confidence, creativity, and authentic communication. Rooted in research and best practices, it provides structured guidance for educators, caregivers, and mentors to support children in articulating their thoughts, emotions, and ideas effectively.
By prioritising the child’s perspective and promoting a safe, supportive environment, the A Child’s Voice® Model empowers young people to be heard, valued, and engaged in meaningful ways.
Our Vision
- Reduce self-harm and suicide risk in children (8+) through the UK’s only co-designed 10-week programme
- Bridge clinical research to real-world social work practice
- Train professionals to deliver consistent, measurable outcomes
- Reach children in crisis who cannot access support
- Achieve 95% self-reported reductions in self-harm and suicidal thoughts
- Fill the gap before crisis escalation—not replace emergency services
The Impact in Schools
Schools report that the programme makes a significant difference—children begin to thrive, many stop self-harming, and staff feel better equipped to provide strong, structured safeguarding support.
Testimonials from Young People (Ages 12–17)
Age 13
“Before the programme, I didn’t think anything could help me stop hurting myself. Week by week, I started to understand my feelings instead of being scared of them. I haven’t self-harmed in over two months now, and I feel proud of myself.”
Age 12
“Before the programme, I didn’t really understand my feelings. Over the weeks, I learned ways to notice my emotions and cope with them safely. I feel calmer and more in control now.”
Age 17
“I was struggling before I started. The programme helped me understand my emotions and gave me tools to stay safe. I feel more confident and positive about the future.”
Age 14
“This programme helped me see that I’m not alone. I discovered ways to deal with hard moments without hurting myself. I’m handling challenges differently now.”
Age 15
“I used to keep everything inside and feel stuck. The programme taught me strategies to manage overwhelming feelings. I feel more hopeful and supported.”
Age 16
“I’ve learned new ways to cope when I feel upset. The programme gave me skills I can use every day, and I feel stronger than before.”
Safeguarding Children by Working with Partners
- Statutory & Government Services – trusted authorities across sectors
- Police & Justice – supporting law enforcement and probation
- Mental Health & CAMHS – children, adolescents, and families
- NHS & Health Providers – local and national care services
- Charities & Voluntary Organisations – community-driven impact
- Local Authorities & Councils – strategic partnerships
- Safeguarding & Multi-Agency Networks – protecting children and adults
- Education – schools, colleges, and higher education
- Early Help & Family Support – empowering families and youth
- Youth Justice & Social Work – practical intervention and guidance
- Housing & Supported Accommodation – safe homes for young people
- Homelessness & Domestic Abuse Services – critical support networks
- Substance Misuse & Recovery – specialist recovery services
- Community & Faith Organisations – local engagement and care
- Public Health Services – wellbeing initiatives
- Virtual Schools & Foster Care – supporting children in care
- National Suicide Prevention Alliance – life-saving partnerships