What are anti-ligature blinds?

There’s no easy way to say this... but vulnerable people may use blind and curtain products to self-harm.

In a nutshell:

Anti-ligature controls stop vulnerable people from using blinds to self-harm
Blind manufacturers, suppliers, NHS and healthcare providers have collaborated to eliminate ligature risk
Safer breakaway controls and wand/crank mechanisms replace cords and chains
Brackets and hooks are strong enough for blinds and curtains – but nothing more
Talk to a specialist blind and curtain supplier about your requirements

The answer is not to remove these products from harm’s way – they’re designed to make places more comfortable for people – but to make them safe.

Blind manufacturers, suppliers, the NHS and healthcare providers have collaborated for years to develop products that eliminate ligature risk.

This is in addition to the legal requirements to make all blind and curtain controls child safe.

Breakaway controls – Instead of being securely fixed, cords and chains are attached by magnetic connectors. When weight is applied, they simply break away.
Wand or crank-operated systems – It is safer to remove potentially lethal cords and chains completely. Safe mechanisms can be used for all kinds of blinds and curtains.
Recessed rails – Tracks, rails and rollers are recessed to remove all points where a ligature could be attached.
Magnetic brackets – When weight is applied to any part of the blind or curtain assembly, it will separate from the brackets – but can be easily reattached.
Detachable curtain gliders and hooks – Removing the risk of curtains being used as a ligature – hooks are strong enough to hold the material, but nothing else.

Not every system will be right for you. It’s best to talk to a specialist blind and curtain supplier.

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