About this Kane FM story
Local charities, Catalyst and Oakleaf, have come together to pilot a Young Adult Safe Haven, funded by the University of Surrey and Community Foundation for Surrey.
Research went into exploring how the current Safe Haven model could be adapted to attract more young people. This brand-new service provides a space exclusive to young people aged 18-25 in Surrey so that they may feel more comfortable in seeking support with their mental health.
The importance of acknowledging and treating mental ill-health has become more prevalent in the past two years amidst the pandemic, as psychological distress seems to have risen exponentially amongst young people. This encouraged local charities to research further into how they may be able to provide support. Young Minds conducted four surveys to explore the effects of the pandemic on young people, who frequently referenced feelings of loneliness, isolation and fears of the future. 67% believe the pandemic will have a long-term negative effect on their mental health.
When asked about creating a Safe haven specifically for young people, in a survey conducted by User Voice and Participation Surrey, young adults fed back that they would feel more comfortable in their own space and among peers of a similar age:
“As a 22 year old at Surrey University this would be so helpful. I feel we’re at a weird age where we do not fit in.”
“I would definitely go if it was for younger people!”
The Young Adult Safe Haven are operating a free drop-in service - from 5 pm - 9 pm 7 days a week, 365 days a year, with no appointment needed. The first 6 months will act as a trial period with the potential to extend and become a permanent fixture. This walk-in service is adjacent to the main Safe Haven - but with a separate entrance (101 Walnut Tree Close, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4UQ) and free parking is available on site.
Support workers will be available to speak with confidentially one on one and will offer encouragement, reassurance, and compassion whilst listening to the challenges a client is facing. All the support workers are friendly, welcoming and trained specifically to support young adults. There is no limit to the number of sessions you can have. You may come as many times as you like to maintain your mental health and wellbeing. Careful consideration has gone into making sure the space is comfortable and welcoming with refreshments available to all clients. Individuals presenting with a crisis will be signposted to the Safe Haven next door where they will be seen by an NHS mental health practitioner.
Peer support is encouraged but not enforced. It can be hugely beneficial and supportive, especially with feelings of isolation and disconnect to remind young people that they’re not alone. There is a capacity for one-on-one support alongside facilitated peer support and while people are waiting to talk with a support worker, there are games and activities which individuals can join in with if they wish.
More information is available on the Catalyst and Oakleaf websites:
www.catalystsupport.org.uk | www.oakleaf-enterprise.org
Twitter: @CATALYSTethos| @_oakleaf
Instagram: @Catalyst_support| @oakleaf_enterprise
YouTube: Catalyst Support| Oakleaf Enterprise