The Sanctuary – CPSL Mind

What to expect?

If you live in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough, are aged 16 or older and are experiencing a mental health crisis, then you may be referred to CPSL Mind’s Sanctuary by a mental health professional after calling the NHS First Response Service on 111 and then choosing the mental health option.

Anyone can experience an emotional or mental health crisis for many different reasons and in many different ways. You may be overwhelmed by your emotions, feel gripped by anxiety, start hearing or seeing things that are frightening or have suicidal thoughts. Whatever you are going through, it is nothing to be ashamed of and talking to someone and being in a place of safety could be the first step to feeling better.

CPSL Mind’s Sanctuaries are non-clinical settings that are designed to be homely and comfortable – like a living room. There are no doctors or nurses present so medical interventions aren’t available, but a trained mental health support worker will explore strategies with you to help you feel calmer and more in control. This might include breathing techniques, mindfulness, talking things over or just sitting with you so you don’t feel so alone.

“The Sanctuary has given me the encouragement to keep going when I’ve needed it most. Rather than a clinical experience, it provides a person-centred approach meaning I can easily talk things through with someone who understands and can help me.” Fay

More information:

There are two CPSL Mind Sanctuaries – one in Peterborough and one in Cambridge – but you can’t just turn up. To access a Sanctuary you will need to call the NHS First Response Service (by dialling 111 and choosing the mental health option) and speak to an operator about what you are experiencing so they can determine the best way to help you.

Sanctuaries are available between 11am and 5pm for telephone or online support during weekdays and between 6pm and 1am for face-to-face support every day, all year round. You will be offered a two hour window to attend a CPSL Mind Sanctuary, and if you don’t feel better, specialist mental health support can be further sought by the NHS First Response Service.

After you have left a CPSL Mind Sanctuary, you might be offered a CPSL Mind Discharge Buddy or be encouraged to talk to your GP.

This service is free.

For more sources of mental health support or for someone to talk to, here is a list of Telephone Support Lines. Remember you are not alone and things will get better.