A safe space for mental health distress

An innovative new community-based model of care supporting people experiencing mental health distress, has commenced in Caboolture and Redcliffe.

The Safe Space Network evolved as a community response to research conducted by Brisbane North Partners in Recovery that identified a high number of people presenting to emergency departments in psychological distress but were ineligible for admission. The research highlighted the need for a more appropriate environment for people to receive low to mid-level social and emotional support.

Currently two safe spaces are open in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region as part of the Safe Space Strategy, led by a collaborative of NGO and government partners. Safe Space staff are trained mental health workers who work one-on-one with clients to identify symptoms and give them the tools they need to self-manage recovery at home. These tools include access to social and emotional support, safety planning, a sensory room, creative activities and a safe space to ease distress.

Safe Space is a self-referral service and health practitioners are welcome to contact the team with enquires. For more information visit the My Mental Health website.