Head Space offers an out-of-hours service for people who consider that they are approaching a mental health crisis. The service aims to provide a non-clinical setting with a safe, calm and structured environment, where individuals can go to access peer support.
Head Space - An Introduction to Our Service
Staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide support in both 1:1 and group settings, with the goal of de-escalating crises, setting achievable goals and (where appropriate) working with the Wellness Recovery Action Plan. Onward referrals/signposting will take place as required.
Clients do not need a formal appointment. However, a prior telephone or email contact, with relevant information from services would be most helpful.
Individuals can also self-refer to Head Space by attending during our opening hours.
Intoxication will not be a barrier if there is no disruptive or violent behaviour.
Why not be a peer supporter?
Opportunities are available now…
People who have experienced mental health issues, or care for those in mental distress, can offer privileged insight and understanding and draw on their own experiences to help others.
Get involved, develop skills, help the wider community and be a positive part of change.
Who’s appropriate?
- Anyone who believes they are approaching a mental health crisis
AND
- Is open to the idea of talking to a peer member/or receiving support
Who’s not appropriate?
- Those experiencing acute mental ill health or a psychotic episode
- Anyone exhibiting aggressive/violent behaviour
- Individuals whose issues are not related to mental health
The service aims to achieve several outcomes:
- Reduce attendance and reliance on statutory services (particularly unscheduled care and ED department)
- Reduce contact with the crisis response mental health teams if support can be provided more appropriately
- Reduce impact on Police, including time spent dealing with mental health issues
- Reduce inappropriate admissions to hospital
- Promote recovery offering activities that increase confidence, social networks and tackle isolation
- Raise awareness of mental health and promote earlier intervention
If you decide to visit Head Space:
You will be actively listened to
You will not be interrogated
You will not be given unsolicited advice
You will not be judged
You will be accepted for being you
You will be acknowledged for your strengths
You will be treated as a person and not an illness
The Head Space service has been commissioned by:
The NEW Devon Clinical Commissioning Group & is managed by Colebrook SW
How to get here by bus
Our Ethics
Our Volunteer Team have recently been awarded with the Community Spirit Award from Devon & Cornwall Police.
Service User Feedback and Testimonials
“Feels like a safe place, always somebody on hand to talk to when in crisis. Other service users are friendly. Was wary to come following past experiences – it’s really different.”
“Supportive, feel understood, can talk about anything.”
“Brilliant service would recommend. I have trust issues but felt safe here. Didn’t realise how beneficial this service would be for me. Would’ve ended back in prison if they hadn’t helped me.”
“This service is a life saver. I would be much worse if I couldn’t come here. Having someone to listen to when things are difficult is a life saver.”