Anyone who assists self-harm could face five-year jail term under new plan

Ministers are seeking to broaden the law to criminalise assisting self-harm online or in person

Guidance on self-harm suggests it can occur at any age (Getty/iStock)

Anyone who assists someone to self-harm could face up to five years in prison under plans for a new offence.

Ministers are seeking to broaden the law to criminalise those who encourage or assist self-harm online or in person, as part of the Crime and Policing Bill.

The move would mean anyone who intends to cause serious self-harm could be prosecuted, even if that did not lead to any injuries.

Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones said the prevalence of serious self-harm, especially in young people, is “hugely concerning”.

“It is an awful truth that some people encourage or assist such behaviour, and one I wanted to draw attention to during Mental Health Awareness Week.

“Whether encouragement is by communication, or more directly by assistance, the outcome is the same.

“We are determined that anybody intending to see others harm themselves is stopped and dealt with in the strongest way.”

The change to the law seeks to replace the existing offence to cover all ways self-harm could be aided (PA)

Under the Online Safety Act 2023, it is already illegal to encourage or assist suicide or self-harm through content online.

But the change to the law seeks to replace the existing offence to cover all ways self-harm could be aided.

It is understood that the new legislation will not criminalise anyone who did not have the intention to cause harm, such as by sharing experiences of self-harm or discussing the issue.

Guidance on self-harm suggests it can occur at any age, but there is evidence of a “recent increase” in prevalence among young people in England, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in 2022.

Papyrus operates a 24/7 service and specialises in supporting children and their mental health. HOPELINE247 is a confidential support and advice service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide.

If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice.

Samaritans can be contacted for free, 24/7, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org