Northumberland’s first physical Safe Haven, launched by Everyturn Mental Health in Ashington, has reported a dramatic rise in demand, seeing a 182% increase in monthly referrals since opening in April 2024. The crisis service, based at ‘The Bothy’ in Ashington, was established with a £1 million investment from NHS England and NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) as a response to the growing need for accessible mental health support in the North East.
In just six months, the Safe Haven has had 528 referrals, with a notable surge in those seeking help due to the impact of social and economic pressures. Nearly 39% of those visiting the Safe Haven report dealing with significant life challenges, including issues related to housing, finance, employment, and benefits. The service has been particularly well-received by the local community, offering a dedicated high-street location where individuals can access specialist support when facing mental health distress.
The Safe Haven operates differently from traditional crisis centres by focusing not only on immediate mental health relief but also on tackling the root causes of crisis, whether they relate to housing instability, financial struggles, or substance misuse. The approach has had a marked effect on those accessing the service, with 88% of clients reporting a reduction in feelings of distress following intervention.
Tracy Bruce, Head of Community and Crisis at Everyturn Mental Health, praised the positive impact the service has made. “It is incredible to see the positive impact that the Safe Haven has had so far for people across all of Northumberland, and the physical presence in Ashington has been welcomed as a place for local people to get support,” she said. “We’re expecting that demand for the Safe Haven will increase as we head into a winter of unknowns – so it’s vital that people who are in mental health distress know that there is support available to them and nobody has to struggle alone.”
Everyturn Mental Health’s success with the Safe Haven in Ashington has prompted plans to expand. A new referral-only facility is set to open in Newcastle city centre this month, with the aim of providing similar crisis support for those facing mental health challenges in the surrounding areas.
Levi Buckley, Chief Delivery Officer at the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), highlighted the importance of accessible, community-based mental health services. “Mental health distress can happen to any of us, and we’re working to improve the range of services so people can get the right support at the right time,” he said. “The Bothy offers something different – not just help in a crisis, but help with the problem that caused the crisis, like housing, money, alcohol or drugs. The team can also put you in touch with various services depending on what kind of support you need.”
With mental health concerns predicted to intensify through the winter months, the Safe Haven is prepared to accommodate rising demand, offering a lifeline for those in the community who may otherwise have little access to such vital support.
