The Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) is opening its new Community-Led Safe Space this month, which aims to provide mental health support outside of a clinical setting.
The centre will provide peer support from volunteers with lived experience and mental health first aid training to people experiencing emotional distress or a suicidal crisis.
The trained volunteers will talk with visitors in a welcoming environment and refer them to services including crisis centres if needed.
MRSPAG chairperson Sarah Lungu said that the new safe space was the result of years of work, and was a significant step for the organisation and community.
“It’s really significant. Unfortunately … the rates of suicide in our area are quite high,” Ms Lungu said.
“In the Macedon Ranges, it’s actually really common for people to present to emergency services and be denied access, and we’re trying to close the gap there between a lack of access before presenting to a hospital.”
The safe space, located at the Woodend Neighbourhood House, will be open on Wednesday nights and Saturday during the day.
Ms Lungu said that the space had been designed to be welcoming and included a garden, fidget toys, and was decorated with artwork.
“We’re hoping for it to be very consistent, long-term, and eventually we will have … running hopefully for some more hours [with] lots of volunteers onboard who are equally excited about it,” she said.
“Sometimes when you’re really ill, you don’t feel worthy enough to call emergency services or you’re scared you’re going to get in trouble for them. “So, you just want to be around people who get you and understand the word suicide and know what to do.”
The initiative has been supported by Roses in the Ocean, Community Bank Gisborne and District, and the Woodend Neighbourhood House.
The community is invited to visit the new space at an official opening from 5.30–8.30pm on Wednesday, November 20, at the Woodend Neighbourhood House.
A barbecue will be provided.
