Second Mental Health Crisis Support Centre Opens

A second facility offering in-person support for individuals undergoing a mental health crisis has commenced operations. The Bothy, located in Ashington, Northumberland, which launched in April, has observed a monthly rise in individuals seeking assistance. Consequently, Everyturn Mental Health, the organization managing The Bothy, has inaugurated a comparable center in Newcastle that accepts referrals. Tracy Bruce, who serves as the head of community and crisis at the charity, stated: “It is incredible to see the positive impact that the safe haven has had on people.” While the charity previously delivered telephone-based crisis assistance for the NHS, it determined that direct, in-person support was also necessary. The Bothy, situated on Laburnum Terrace, operates daily from 14:00 to 22:00 and was the inaugural walk-in mental health support service in the North East. It provides assistance for various concerns, such as debt, housing, social isolation, and relationships. Ms Bruce anticipates a surge in demand “as we head in to the winter of unknowns”.”It is vital that people in mental health distress know they don’t have to struggle alone,” she further commented. Individuals can be directed to the newly established facility in Newcastle city centre by their GPs or other healthcare professionals. Levi Buckley, representing the funder North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), noted that the service delivers “help in a crisis” and addresses root causes like issues with housing, finances, alcohol, or drugs. “The team can also put you in touch with other services depending on the support you need,” he added.