The new multi-agency Somerset Harmful Sexual Behaviour Protocol is a collaboratively produced partnership document that applies to all Somerset agencies.
The protocol has been developed to support children who are suspected or observed displaying sexualised behaviour that may be harmful to themselves or others, and those professionals working with them. This protocol will support those working with concerns around Harmful Sexual Behaviour to determine the level of concern and required actions.
Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) is developmentally inappropriate sexual behaviour displayed by children and young people which is harmful or abusive.
Hackett, S. (2014) Children and young people with harmful sexual behaviours. London: Research in Practice
Read the new Multi-agency Somerset Harmful Sexual Behaviour Protocol HERE
The new partnership protocol has been designed to support those reading it to understand their role and responsibility alongside their own agency guidelines.
For those children that may be impacted by a child’s harmful sexual behaviours, usual safeguarding children processes should followed.
