A new approach to mental health emergency provision is coming to Stockport this spring.
From 1 April 2020, a 'safe haven' for people who feel they are in crisis will be open from early morning through to the every day.
Expert support will be available whether or not people have a mental health diagnosis and regardless of whether they are accessing other mental health support services.
The safe haven, which will be operated by national adult health and social care charity Making Space, will open at a site near to Stepping Hill hospital.
A 24 hour helpline, operated by Mental Health Matters, will run alongside the safe haven and will be free of charge to people across the borough.
The new crisis pathway was commissioned by Stockport CCG in response to extensive review and research of local people's needs.
The CCG's Mental Health Investment identified access and crisis as key themes and approved additional investment to develop the new mental health crisis pathway.
The safe haven will be accessible to people aged 18+.
Rachel Peacock, CEO, Making Space, said: “With current statistics telling us that 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem each year, getting the right support in the right place at the right time is vital.
“The daytime safe haven will offer a welcoming, safe and friendly environment with a ‘no wrong door’ approach for anyone experiencing mental health crisis.
“Our skilled and caring team, including peer support workers, will support people to reduce any immediate crisis and to safety plan; drawing on strengths, resilience, and coping mechanisms to manage their mental health and wellbeing.
“As well as providing practical and emotional support to people in crisis, we will also have a strong focus on supporting their families and carers.
“This daytime safe haven service is a welcomed addition to the current mental health support services in Stockport, and will complement the night time provision already in place at Stepping Hill Hospital.
"We are proud to offer this service to the Stockport community and to work in partnership with Mental Health Matters, who will be providing the 24/7 telephone support side of the service."
To find out more about the new service please contact Liz Butler, peripatetic service manager at Making Space on 07813 354 521 or email stockportsafehaven@makingspace.co.uk
Making Space is currently looking to recruit a team who will set up and lead the delivery of care, including, a service manager, team leader and recovery workers. Visit www.makingspace.co.uk for details.