Challenging behaviour

Challenging behaviour refers to actions or behaviours that put the individual or others at risk, are socially inappropriate or unacceptable, or which disrupt others. It can include verbal or physical aggression, self-injury, property damage or not engaging in an agreed or expected way. 

Children, young people and adults at risk may display challenging behaviour for a number of reasons, for example, distress, unmet needs, trauma, medical conditions or sensory challenges. Occasionally, challenging behaviour may be a danger to themselves and/or others. This is where it can become a safeguarding concern. 

Organisations should have agreed guidelines and training in place for workers on dealing with challenging behaviour and safe de-escalation strategies. 

If someone is harming themselves or another person:

• Safety is the priority.
• In an emergency, contact emergency services.
• Keep others in the group away from harm.
• Encourage the person to use any known grounding / regulation techniques they may have.
• Keep your voice calm and low; use short, simple sentences if talking to them.
• If appropriate and timely, contact a parent / carer who can support the person to regulate.
• Don’t put yourself in physical danger.
• Don’t try to argue, reprimand or reason with the person while they are distressed and dysregulated.
• Physical interventions should only ever be used as a last resort to prevent serious harm e.g. to stop a distressed child running on to a busy road. 

After a safeguarding incident: 

• Workers involved should record what happened as soon as possible after the incident and pass on to the Safeguarding Lead. 
• Parents / carers should be informed how the incident has been managed. 
• Teams should reflect on the incident to consider whether de-escalation techniques were effective, if more training is needed and to process any of their own feelings about it. 
• If necessary, risk assess the person’s involvement in your activities. What would need to happen for them to participate safely in future? 

Challenging behaviour should be addressed with the individual in a sensitive, age-appropriate and clear way. Clear boundaries and expectations are important for creating safer environments. Don’t avoid addressing the behaviour once the moment of crisis has passed. Explain what was not ok and any consequences – either following this incident or if it happened again. Be curious, rather than accusatory, about what might have caused the behaviour. Collaborate with the person to find out how a similar incident could be avoided in future and if they need any support.