Sheffield Digital Safety Plan
The Sheffield Digital Safety Plan is now live, bringing services across Sheffield together with one unified, accessible tool to support people at risk of suicide.
Developed through collaboration between Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield Flourish, Sheffield City Council, and Hive, the plan addresses the need for a consistent approach to supporting those in crisis. It builds on Sheffield’s extensive resources, streamlining efforts to ensure no one is overlooked.
Currently, individuals may encounter multiple safety plans across different agencies, leading to repeated assessments and fragmented care. The Sheffield Digital Safety Plan eliminates this by offering a single, consistent template used citywide. Designed with Sheffield’s branding, the plan is approachable and recognisable for all users.
The plan is simple and minimalistic, intentionally avoiding information overload. It offers practical tools, including activities, distractions, and safety measures, to support individuals approaching or in crisis. Unlike crisis plans, the safety plan is proactive, empowering individuals to take preventive action and remain in control of their well-being.
Raising Awareness
You are invited to play a vital role in raising awareness and ensuring widespread adoption of the plan. Collaboration across statutory services, non-statutory organisations, and charities is crucial. The goal is for everyone in Sheffield to know about the plan, refer others to the resources, and integrate it into their practices.
Accessible across devices, including phones and computers, the plan features an easy-to-use interface with dropdown menus, making it practical for all users. Its simplicity ensures it is a tool that can be completed once and relied upon to save lives.
Call to Action
You can make a difference by sharing the Sheffield Digital Safety Plan, discussing it with colleagues and communities, and exploring ways to promote it further. Suggestions such as organising drop-in sessions or creating promotional materials are encouraged. This is a collaborative effort; your input is essential to ensure the plan reaches as many people as possible.
Together, we can make the Sheffield Digital Safety Plan a cornerstone of suicide prevention in the city. Visit the Sheffield Suicide Prevention Support webpage today and start using the plan to help save lives.
Darren McCarthy, Clinical Risk and Patient Safety Advisor, introducing the safety plan as part of the launch event.
