Safe Haven for those in distress

A new haven for those experiencing mental distress opened at Wyong on Friday, April 11.

The NSW Government officially opened a new Safe Haven, which will offer immediate support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress, offering a safe and welcoming alternative to emergency departments.

The new service is the second Safe Haven available in the region after a Gosford service opened in 2023.

It will have a strong focus on providing culturally safe care delivered by Aboriginal suicide prevention peer workers, to support the region’s Aboriginal community.

Minister for the Central Coast and Aboriginal Affairs David Harris said there had been 1,600 presentations to the Safe Haven at Gosford Hospital in the past year.

“This reinforces how important these services are,” he said.

“It is great to see the Safe Haven service now available and more easily accessible for everyone living in the northern parts of the Central Coast.

“With Aboriginal identified peer workers among the staff it will help us close the gap by supporting a cultural social-emotional and wellbeing perspective approach to a suicide crisis.”

There is no need for an appointment or a medical referral to attend Wyong Safe Haven – everyone is free to drop in.

Carers can also access the service for support in helping their loved ones.

Wyong Safe Haven features a peaceful outdoor area and yarning circle, along with a calming space featuring local Aboriginal artwork, creating a sense of connection and belonging for local Aboriginal residents visiting the haven.

People attending will be greeted by a peer worker and can use the space in a way that is most helpful to them at the time.

This might be having a cuppa and a yarn or having a quiet moment in the outdoor space.

Wyong Safe Haven is located in the grounds of Wyong Hospital, near Wyong Mental Health Centre.

It is currently open from 9am-3.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with hours to increase in the coming months.

The service is expected to be open five days per week by mid-year.

The Mental Health Line is also available 24/7 on 1800 011 511 to connect people to other mental health services.

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Wyong Safe Haven is part of the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Suicides initiative.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said Wyong was the 22nd Safe Haven located on or near hospital grounds across NSW.