ANDOVER Mind celebrated the first anniversary of its service in Basingstoke which provides all-year-round support for urgent mental health help.

In partnership with Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Andover Mind celebrated a year on September 18 since the Safe Haven crisis service opened its doors to Hampshire residents.

Safe Haven is located at the wellbeing centre in Vyne Road and provides an out-of-hours service to offer help to those in crisis, supporting people across the wider north and mid-Hampshire region, including Andover, Romsey and Winchester.

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The Haven is open 365 days a year from 6pm until 10pm, providing an alternative to A&E admission for adults experiencing an urgent mental health crisis (or those supporting a loved one), providing emotional and practical support in a safe, calm, comfortable, compassionate and non-clinical environment.

A mental health crisis is defined as when you feel at breaking point and you need urgent help; you might be extremely anxious, having panic attacks or flashbacks, feeling suicidal or self-harming and feel you have nowhere else to turn.

Service user Stuart said of the service: “If it wasn’t for Safe Haven then I wouldn’t be here now. The staff are friendly, kind and knowledgeable and have helped me get over some negative thinking habits which have burdened me for years. Coming here has helped me to move on, put my past behind me, and look forward to a more positive future.”

The Safe Haven also launched their new virtual appointment system at their anniversary celebrations, enabling people to receive support online if they're unable to physically attend.

Elveta Bailey, adult mental health transformation manager for Hampshire and Isle of Wight integrated care board, one for the commissioners responsible for funding Safe Haven said: “The individuals who have accessed the service, and their families, have benefited from the commitment, compassion and non-judgemental support of a knowledgeable staff team, with peer supporters being fundamental to the success of this service. We are excited to see how this service evolves and continue to reach out and support a variety of individuals and communities." 

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