A safe haven for the people of Dubbo
THE new mental health facility, Safe Haven, opens in Dubbo for people living in Western NSW to provide alternative and peer-led mental health services.
Member for Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the new Safe Haven will play an important role in helping people in the community access immediate support as close to home as possible.
Opening a space like Safe Haven is a significant step forward in how we approach mental health and addiction, Mr Saunders said, adding that when people walk into Safe Haven the objective is fo them to feel supported.
“Lived experience is certainly one of those things that adds value,” he continued, saying “it makes a difference when someone you are speaking to has been in a similar situation and are able to provide support”.
“You can have a cup of tea or coffee, make use of its quiet rooms, relax in a massage chair or take advantage of provided puzzles, games and music – all to help better manage negative or suicidal thoughts.”
Mr Saunders said that people are welcome in the facility to talk to someone who knows what they are talking about rather than seeking mental health services in emergency departments or use acute medical treatments.
“This is a significant step forward for our region,” Mr Saunders acknowledged that he is sure to hear amazing stories of support from the use of the facility and encourages people to make use of Safe Haven as he describes it is a safe environment to relax in.
Western NSW Local Health District director of Integrated Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, Jason Crisp said people can expect to find a welcoming and supportive environment at Safe Haven, which is the one of 20 to be trailed in NSW with hopes of increasing hours in the near future.
Mr Crisp says the Dubbo facility is a replica of the Safe Haven in Parkes, which has shown success in the months since it was established.
“This is a relaxing and serene health service (where people can) have a conversation with others,” he said, adding the environment does not reflect clinical facilities and aims to reduce the number of patients requiring acute treatments.
Mr Crisp says everything is monitored in the facility and the health district is open to feedback.
“People don’t need to sign in or fill out any forms when they arrive, they can just relax and enjoy the calmness of the space.
“Anyone is welcome at the Safe Haven, and that includes not just residents of Dubbo and surrounding areas but also people who may be visiting, driving through or from elsewhere in Western NSW.”
If you, or someone you know needs support, please call:
• 13 11 14 – Lifeline, lifeline.org.au
• 1300 223 636 – Beyond Blue, beyoundblue.org.au/forums