Service Spotlight: Safe Space

For this month’s Service Spotlight we spoke with Roz Mascall and Daniel Taylor from our Wellbeing service to find out what Safe Space is, and how it benefit’s young people’s wellbeing. 

Can you tell us what Safe Space is?

Safe Space is a wellbeing group for young people aged 16 – 25 years. We meet every Monday from 5.30pm till 7pm. 

How does the Safe Space group benefit mental wellbeing?

We organise regular activities related to the 5 Ways to Wellbeing, such as art, drama and mindfulness. The group also offers a space to have discussions about mental health and wellbeing in a safe, supportive place that’s facilitated by Bath Mind staff and volunteers.

We have trained staff present to listen, provide emotional support and signpost to relevant services. We also bring in external facilitators to share knowledge and expertise to support wellbeing.

What sort of challenges do people who attend Safe Space face?

Group members can have a range of mental health challenges and are often keen to engage with others their own age who may share similar experiences. 

We are able to support clients who have left CAHMS but may feel unsure about accessing adult mental health services, or those who are on waiting lists for support.

We recognise young people can wrestle with various challenges related to academic studies, work and finances, as well as issues related to LGBTQ+. By providing both in-person and online group sessions, we are able to meet the needs of those who are unable to travel for various reasons. 

What are some of the successful outcomes you see from people after they’ve attended Safe Space?

The building of healthy relationships and a supportive peer network. It’s a joy to witness the group arrange their own socials and support each other so attentively! Seeing people creatively express themselves is also amazing, and recently the group participated in making a film which was great to see everyone enjoy contributing to.