Women-only mental health crisis house to open in town

A new mental health support facility for women is set to open next month.

The crisis house in Swindon, Wiltshire, is the first of its kind in the area and will offer immediate non-clinical respite to women facing mental health challenges.

The community-based space is owned by the Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) and is run by the Alabaré and Missing Link charities.

AWP's chief operating officer, Mathew Page, said it was a "safe and supportive place" for women to turn to and help them "avoid a hospital admission".

While in residence at crisis houses, guests are provided with non-clinical support to help them find coping mechanisms and recovery plans.

They usually spend two to three weeks in respite before going back to their own homes - however there is no limit on the number of times they can stay.

Alabaré is one of four charities that form the Banes, Swindon and Wiltshire (BSW) Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership. It provides voluntary mental health provision across Bath and Northeast Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire.

Head of mental health services at Alabaré, Helen Brian, said the new facility would be "hugely beneficial".

"It's important to us that the service is accessible, trauma-informed and person-centred, as everyone's journey through mental health concerns is unique," she said.

The announcement of the crisis house opening in Swindon comes on Mental Health Awareness Week, an annual UK-wide campaign that challenges stigma and promotes practical actions people can take to support their own wellbeing.

Page added the facility would make "a real difference to women, their families and carers, while also providing a more compassionate and effective use of health and social care resources".