Suffolk Mind has opened its first mental health drop-in hub in Ipswich town centre. Some of those involved explain what the new REST space will offer to people
A charity has opened a first-of-its-kind mental health drop-in hub in Ipswich town centre. The new REST Hub has officially opened in Carr Street thanks to local mental health charity Suffolk Mind. Standing for Recover, Eat, Support and Talk, the hub offers a space for people to receive free one-to-one and group-based mental health support in a non-clinical environment. The centre is Suffolk’s first-ever REST Hub and follows on the successes achieved at similar hubs in Norfolk by Norfolk and Waveney Mind.
Jon Neal, CEO of Suffolk Mind, said: “We are delighted to open the doors to Suffolk’s first-ever REST Hub. The hub is a comfortable space where people can take time out and talk to experienced mental health professionals over a cuppa about what they are experiencing and explore the support available to them. It’s all about making it easier for people to reach out for help when they’re experiencing mental ill health, before they reach crisis point. Our thanks go to our colleagues over the border at Norfolk and Waveney Mind for supporting us in bringing this important service to Suffolk.”
Although the Hub will not operate as a café, all visitors will be welcomed with a drink, a warm welcome and a listening ear. Self-referrals, professional referrals and walk-ins are welcome.
Rafaele Reeve, REST Hub Manager at Suffolk Mind, added: “Our REST Hub has been created to give people somewhere they feel comfortable walking into, without judgement and without pressure. Sometimes having a conversation can be the first step towards feeling better.”
The REST Hub, Ipswich can be found at 22 Carr Street, which was previously home to Steam House Cafe before its closure earlier this year. More information on the REST Hub and its opening times can be found at Suffolk Mind.
Featured image shows Rafaele Reeve and Jon Neal at the official opening of the REST Hub alongside members of the team. Credit: Suffolk Mind
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