Penrith Safe Haven Opens for Nepean Blue Mountains
21 November 2022
Residents across the Nepean Blue Mountains region can now access additional free, safe and welcoming mental health support with the launch of Safe Haven, co-located within the Head to Health centre in Penrith.
A Safe Haven is a place you can go with no bookings or referrals required as an alternative to emergency departments if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress. Safe Havens have been co-designed by people with a lived experience of suicidal distress and provide quieter, calmer environments than emergency departments.
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Chief Executive, Kay Hyman said the District had partnered with Wentworth Healthcare, the provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN), and Neami National to create a Safe Haven, within the current Head to Health centre, ensuring a coordinated and integrated approach to the delivery of mental health care for the region.
“The new service is staffed by peer-support workers who have lived experience with suicide and recovery. These workers are uniquely placed to offer emotional support and provide information on local services, ensuring people have immediate support when they need it most – without fear or judgement,” Mrs Hyman said.
Safe Haven, together with Head to Health, allows people seeking urgent mental health support to receive compassionate and responsive advice in a community driven space where people can sit down, talk, and reflect.
Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said the collaboration of the agencies involved is an important aspect in integrating and streamlining mental health care.
“The integration of Safe Haven within the already established Head to Health centre is unique and ensures that key services across the region know what support is available and who can access it. It means that when someone reaches out, they’re linked with the most appropriate service for their needs, as soon as they need it, improving the overall experience of accessing mental health support,” Ms Reay said.
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