New support centre to open

From Monday, residents who feel they are at a crisis point with their mental health will be able to find support and help at the Lighthouse, a new centre on Shirley Road.

The facility will give people the chance to talk to mental health professionals and peer specialists, who themselves have lived experience of mental health difficulties which they can draw upon to help others.

People will be able to take part in creative activities, spend time in a calming sensory room, have a chat with staff or simply have a cup of tea and take some time out.

The informal drop-in centre will be open every day from 4pm until midnight.

The new facility will have a lounge area and a sensory room. Run by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and Solent Mind, the new centre follows a £400,000 investment.

Dr Hana Burgess, GP Board member for NHS Southampton City CCG, said many adults in Southampton have “enduring mental health condition”.

She added: “The launch of The Lighthouse is positive step forward in support for people with mental health difficulties in Southampton. The mix of support from professionals and people with lived experience makes this service unique in our area. Many adults in Southampton have a severe and enduring mental health condition, which is why this is such a big priority in the city’s new five year health and care strategy, which will be launched shortly.”

People will not need to be referred or book an appointment.

The centre aims to support people over 18 who are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, alone or confused about where to find support, but staff will not be able to work with people who need medical attention or show physically aggressive behaviour.

Dr Nick Broughton, chief executive of Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Often in a crisis, what you really need is a safe and calming space, supported by friendly experts who understand what you are going through. This is exactly what the Lighthouse aims to provide.”