Community-led safe space launches

A new community-led safe space will be established on the Surf Coast to support people experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, those supporting someone through their own challenges, and people bereaved by suicide.

The support network will operate out of Torquay Community House each Saturday afternoon and provide a welcoming, non-judgmental environment for anyone seeking connection, understanding or support.

The initiative has been driven by local volunteers, with support from national charity Roses in the Ocean and a Surf Coast Shire grant.

Peer CARE Companions – local volunteers with lived experience – have been trained through Roses in the Ocean to support people in a safe and understanding way.

Safe Space working party member Nikki Watson said being involved in the initiative was deeply meaningful.

“I want to imagine a world where people in my community who are struggling can come as they are,” Watson said. “We are not here to ‘fix’ problems, we are here to listen if people want to share.

“Come if you don’t want to share, put the kettle on and be around people who ‘get it’.

“Our doors are open and officially the welcome mat is out.”

Fellow volunteer Kim Edgar said she was proud to help bring the community-led program to life.

“I feel deeply privileged to be able to use my own lived experience to help create a place where people feel safe, heard and not alone, and where compassion and connection are available to those going through a difficult time,” she said.

The Safe Space will operate weekly on Saturdays from 1.30pm to 4pm.

An opening event will be held at Torquay Community House on Saturday 28 March from 2pm.