AIM3 assessments

The AIM3 Assessment was developed by the AIM Project, a UK-based initiative that provides training, tools, and resources focused on harmful sexual behaviours in young people. Its purpose is to:

Evaluate risk: Assess the likelihood of reoffending and understand the level of harm posed to others.
Identify underlying factors: Determine the root causes and contributing factors of the behaviour.
Recommend interventions: Programmes to address specific needs and reduce the likelihood of reoffending
Support young people’s development: Enable young people to work through and manage their behaviours in a positive way.

In this way a young person with harmful sexual behaviours, whether they have been convicted of an offence of not, can be supported by Local Authorities, education and in the Youth Justice System. An AIM3 assessment can assist others when making informed decisions about interventions, supervision and rehabilitation.

Our AIM3 assessments are trauma informed and are sensitive to each young person’s background and circumstances, aiming to promote positive development and safeguard both the young person and others in their community.

The AIM3 assessment framework covers multiple areas to ensure a holistic understanding of the young person’s life, mental health, and behaviours. Key components include:

Background Information. Family history, educational background, and social relationships.
History of any previous incidents involving harmful sexual behaviours and any disciplinary or legal actions taken.
Risk Factors, static, dynamic, protective and protective factors that may mitigate risk, such as supportive family relationships, regular school attendance, or involvement in positive social activities.
Behavioural and Psychological Analysis. Evaluation of mental health status, emotional regulation skills, social skills, and coping mechanisms. An insight into their views on their behaviour, including remorse or denial.
Intervention Needs. Identifying any specific needs or interventions to help the young person manage their behaviour constructively.

We use the structured framework of the AIM3 assessment to ensure consistency and thoroughness plus our professional insights and experiences to provide a comprehensive overview.

The young person’s voice is heard in the AIM3 Assessment as we conduct interviews with the young person as well as their family members (where appropriate), and other relevant parties and we try to gain observational insight, where possible, on their behaviour in certain settings such as at home, in school, work or the community.

AIM3 Assessments are a vital tool in understanding, managing, and ultimately addressing harmful sexual behaviours in young people. By evaluating the full context of the young person’s life, the AIM framework provides a balanced view of risks and protective factors.

Delivery

Completion of an AIM3 assessment takes 12 weeks. We undertake sessions online (offering the service nationally), or in person where feasible.

The completed report summarises findings, risk levels, and any necessary interventions or supports we feel are necessary. The AIM3 assessment can then be shared with all the relevant agencies and professionals involved in the young person’s care to ensure a coordinated approach.

We can then recommend (and deliver where required) intervention plans to manage and reduce the risk of the young person causing sexual harm as an adult and give them the best chance of continued positive development without risk to those around them.

These reports can be used in Child Protection proceedings, Child in Need proceedings and Family Court hearings contributing to safeguarding decisions.

Referrals

We accept referrals from statutory agencies and Local Authorities, Family Courts and legal representatives.

We do accept self-referrals which must be privately funded.

Circles South East offers Restoring The Balance to families affected by harmful sexual behaviour. A programme aimed at repairing the relationship between family members affected by sexual harm.

Circles South East can also undertake a Capacity To Protect Assessment which assesses and evaluates a parent or carer’s ability to safeguard the children in their care from sexual abuse.

Our assessments, programmes and interventions can be purchased individually, or we can include them in a contract of support. For more information on any of the services listed please call: 01235 816050 or email hub@circlessoutheast.org.uk