Supporting children who may be harmed outside of their home Some children face harm outside of their home, which is called ‘extra-familial harm’. This can happen in places like school, with friends, in public spaces like the local shops or park, or online. The harm might come from other children or adults. This type of harm can include many things. For example, it can include experiencing violence, being in an unhealthy relationship with someone, or being forced to do something you don’t want to do by another person or a criminal group. Children of all ages can be affected, and it’s important to speak up if you feel unsafe or something doesn’t feel right. Social workers and other practitioners will need to get information about what is happening and think about the best way to keep you safe. This will include understanding what makes you unique, your strengths, and any challenges you face both at home and outside. They will think about your past experiences and how these might affect you. They will also look at how your friends, family, and community might influence your safety. Your family will be included in the process to help them understand what’s happening and how they can support you. Supporting children who are in a secure youth establishment Sometimes children get into trouble and break the law. If this happens to you, you may have to go to court. The court may decide to sentence you to custody. This means you will spend time living in a certain place, for an amount of time decided by a judge. During this time you will meet with the people who will support you while you are in custody, and they will make plans to support your education, health and wellbeing. If you are placed in custody in a ‘secure youth establishment’, the person in charge of that establishment will work with many other people to make sure you have a support plan. People from the local council will visit you and assess your needs before deciding how you should be supported.
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