Adolescent safety framework (ASF)

NSSCP adolescent safety framework (ASF) has launched

This is a coordinated, multi-agency approach to identifying and responding to extra-familial harm. It focuses on risks that occur to young people outside of their home environment for example in peer groups, public spaces, schools or online.

ASF supports agencies to work together using a shared language, pathways and tools to improve safety and outcomes for young people. 

On this page there are downloadable resources for you to use to help you identify and respond to extra-familial harm.

Why we're launching ASF now

  • rising complexity in risks facing adolescents outside the home
  • new national duties for example Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Serious Violence Duty
  • opportunity to embed more evidence-informed, relational and trauma-aware practice

What’s changed

  • new tools including safer me assessment, context weighting and professional guidance now available and in use
  • new resources including the launch of the ASF Hub in the MASH to provide co-ordination, oversight and practice support
  • new pathways such as safer me and safer me plus replacing TAF/CIN or CP processes where the primary risk is outside the home
  • new ways of increasing safety in contexts. Context conferences introduced to address risks in peer groups, neighbourhoods and schools

What you need to do if you are a partner

  • familiarise yourself with the ASF model, tools and your agency’s role
  • use the new pathways where appropriate
  • engage with training which is available online or via team-based sessions
  • champion the approach within your service and promote consistent, child-centred responses

free adolescent safety framework training sessions | Childrens Safeguarding Board

ASF resources

Safer me

Screening tool

School assessment pack

Peer group assessment pack

Community assessment pack

Context conference pack