Young people who self-harm are critical of the way the NHS treats self-inflicted injuries, according to a survey by three youth charities.

Depaul UK, 42^nd Street and YouthNet surveyed 179 users of their online Self-harm: Recovery, advice and support service, a resource for young people suffering from self-harm. A 25-year-old woman said: "When I have been to hospital to get my wounds dressed I had horrible treatments from nurses."

The survey found that 20 per cent of respondents  were under-16, despite the service being for over-16s, and  17 per cent of respondents described themselves as lesbian, gay or bisexual - more than  three times the national average.

Ian Trafford, head of operations and business development at 42^nd Street, said: "It is disappointing that we're still hearing about examples of inadequate care for some young people following instances of self harm. This is in spite of the fact that there are now Nice guidelines.

"In some areas, Manchester for example, the presence of mental health A&E liaison and crisis resolution teams has meant that young people are getting the treatment they need - a sign that with the right resources, training and understanding, things can be better for young people who self-harm."

The organisations that run the online support service are holding a free breakfast seminar for professionals interested in learning more about supporting young people who self-harm. The event takes place on December 1 in London. Contact vicky.chant@youthnet.org for more details.