Why children in children's homes may be at higher risk

NICE NG205 notes that looked-after children and young people have higher rates of social, emotional and mental health difficulties than their peers, and those in residential care can be particularly affected. Trauma, abuse, neglect, loss, repeated moves, rejection, exploitation, disruption to education and uncertainty about the future all increase risk.

This does not mean self-harm or suicide are inevitable in children's homes. It does mean staff should expect some children to struggle to regulate distress, trust adults, ask for help or describe what they are feeling.

Why risk may rise

• Trauma and loss: past harm can be reactivated by new events.
• Placement stress: admission, endings, family contact and review meetings can all trigger distress.
• Mental health strain: anxiety, depression, PTSD symptoms, eating problems or substance use may overlap.
• Social pressure: bullying, exploitation, online harm or peer imitation can increase risk.
• Shame and hopelessness: children may feel stuck, blamed or hard to care for.
• Neurodiversity and communication needs: sensory overload or misunderstandings can intensify emotion quickly.

Manager focus: repeated triggers

When the team understands the pressure around the incident, it is easier to support safety without adding blame.