Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP has spoken about the importance of the Gosford Safe Haven service in State Parliament, with the service supporting more than 1,600 visitors in 2024.
Community members are supported by peer workers with lived experience of suicide and recovery, who offer immediate personalised support to people experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress.
Individuals can receive assistance to create safety plans, access services and develop recovery goals.
Tesch is encouraging Coasties who are struggling with their mental health to consider Gosford Safe Haven as an option for support, emphasising the importance of community awareness of the important service.
“Safe Haven provides a judgement-free safe space to find support and empathy with amazing peer support workers who have faced similar challenges,” she said.
“This incredible facility plays a crucial role in the delivery of support services to the Central Coast, and I am thrilled that it has helped so many Coasties since opening just over a year ago.
“I know that many people in our community are doing it tough right now, and I strongly encourage anyone on the Central Coast that is struggling with their mental health to find refuge in Safe Haven’s welcoming and reassuring environment.”
The service is funded through the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Suicides program, a $143.4M investment over four years.
In 2025 a second, Aboriginal-led Safe Haven is set to open at Wyong Hospital, further expanding the essential service to the community.
The culturally sensitive and non-clinical environment provides an alternative to presenting to the emergency department, allowing people to drop in for support with no appointments or medical referrals necessary.
Many who have used the Gosford Safe Haven report that it has been an integral part of staying safe, with one guest saying ‘Safe Haven has saved my life’.
Gosford Safe Haven is located on the corner of Ambulance Rd and Holden St, Gosford.
It is open Monday to Friday, from 9am-4.30pm.
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