Ministerial and Spokesperson Foreword
Since the launch of Scotland’s dedicated Self-Harm Strategy and Action Plan in November 2023, we have begun to make meaningful progress in understanding and responding to self-harm. This mid-point report marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support people affected by self-harm and provides the first insights into the implementation of this type of Strategy, the first in the world to focus solely on self-harm. It provides an important opportunity to reflect on our collective achievements and learning – and to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring compassionate, recovery focused support is available to all without stigma or discrimination.
Self-harm is a deeply complex and sensitive issue that touches many lives across Scotland. The work to implement this action plan is a key part of our broader vision for mental health in Scotland, one where we recognise the role of reducing inequalities, the wide ranging factors that can have an impact on people’s mental health and wellbeing, and the importance of early intervention.
Over the last eighteen months we have delivered tangible action across the three priority areas of our action plan. This has led to significant changes in how local communities, healthcare providers and third-sector organisations recognise and respond to self-harm. Self-Harm Network Scotland (SHNS), part of Penumbra Mental Health – a pioneering charity supporting people with mental ill health, is a key partner in our implementation and delivery efforts, working alongside the Scottish Government and COSLA to take forward the action plan.
This mid-term report provides an opportunity to assess our progress, recognise learning and identify next steps to ensure that our approach continues to meet the evolving needs of people and communities affected by self-harm across Scotland. As we move into the next phase of implementation it is crucial that we remain responsive to the needs of people who self-harm. We will continue to draw on the valuable insights from people with lived and living experience and the services who support them. We remain committed to reducing stigma and discrimination, enhancing support for those at higher risk of self-harm, and ensuring that services are person-centred and compassionate.
We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in this work, the individuals, families, professionals, and organisations who have contributed to delivery of our outcomes and who are helping to build a more compassionate response to self-harm across Scotland.
Tom Arthur MSP
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing
Councillor Paul Kelly
COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson