When we’re talking to someone who is experiencing heightened emotional distress or mental health struggles, helping them find the right support can make all the difference. Crisis Safe Space (CSS) offers one-to-one, compassionate support across Somerset, providing a welcoming alternative to A&E or emergency GP visits. Provided in partnership by Mind in Somerset and Second Step as part of Open Mental Health, Crisis Safe Space offers both face-to-face and virtual (phone or video) appointments every evening from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Here is a straightforward guide on how Crisis Safe Space works, how to arrange an appointment, and when alternative emergency care should be used.
Important Safety and Access Guidance
Immediate Risk: Crisis Safe Space is designed for out-of-hours emotional support and coping strategies. If someone is at immediate risk of suicide, has self-harmed severely, or requires urgent clinical intervention, please support them to contact emergency services.
Age and Sobriety: Crisis Safe Space supports adults aged 18 and over who are not actively under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of their appointment.
Service Capacity: While staff try to arrange support as quickly as possible—often on the same day or within a few days—there are busy periods when an immediate appointment might not be available.
Options for Booking an Appointment
You can support someone to book an appointment or pass this information on, so they can book themselves.
1. Direct Online Booking
Booking online is often the quickest method, as calling during peak hours can involve a queue.
- Go to the Crisis Safe Space bookings page.
- Choose the appropriate location (e.g., Taunton, Yeovil, Bridgwater, Frome, or Wells).
- Select an available date from the calendar (appearing in darker text).
- Choose a time from the panel next to the calendar.
- Fill in the short booking form with the person’s contact details, GP details, and any preferences about face-to-face or remote sessions.
2. Complete an Appointment Request Form
If no suitable dates are shown on the live booking calendar, you or the person you’re supporting can submit an appointment request form; the service aims to reply within 24 hours
Mind in Somerset Request Form (Taunton, Yeovil)
Second Step Request Form (Bridgwater, Wells, Frome)
Alternatively, see below for making a booking by phone.
3. Booking via Mindline Somerset
You can arrange a Crisis Safe Space appointment by calling Mindline Somerset on 01823 276 892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
Call handlers can offer immediate telephone support and, after taking the information the Crisis safe Space service will need, book the session. If you call on behalf of someone you’re supporting, the handler may ask to speak directly with them to confirm personal details and ensure the service is safe and suitable for their needs.
For further information about Crisis Safe Space, and a video explaining more about the service, please watch this short video.