Identifying and addressing service barriers for children and young people who displayed harmful sexual behaviour

Purpose – Services for children and young people who displayed harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) and their families have remained insufficient and siloed in Australia despite growing recognition of this problem. While some research explores service providers’ perspectives on the barriers and gaps preventing young people and families from accessing and engaging with support services, there is poor understanding of service users’ perspectives. This study aims to report challenges associated with accessing services for HSB from the perspective of service users. Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative interviews with young people aged 14–17 years and their caregivers were conducted and thematically analysed to identify service access barriers. Findings – Four service access barriers were identified: (1) apprehension about seeking help (2) lack of information about services and timely support; (3) service capacity and capability and (4) care continuity. Originality/value – HSB is an under-researched area, with sparse information about service provision, access and engagement in services from a service users’ perspective. This article contributes to knowledge by demonstrating that it is critical to address service access barriers by: increasing information about services for HSB, enhancing service capacity particularly specialist services in rural and remote areas, improving workforce capacity in responding and enhancing collaborative multi-agency working. Making these adjustments should improve service users’ experiences and positively impact on service engagement.