When a patient is experiencing heightened emotional distress or mental health struggles, finding prompt, out-of-hours support makes 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. Delivered in partnership by Mind in Somerset and Second Step as part of Open Mental Health, CSS provides 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 CSS 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 a patient is at immediate risk of suicide, has self-harmed severely, or requires urgent clinical intervention, please contact the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust First Response Service on 0800 138 1692 or 111, or direct them to emergency services.
Age and Sobriety: CSS 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
Medical professionals can book an appointment directly with a patient during a consultation or pass these instructions on, so the patient can book independently.
1. Direct Online Booking (Recommended for Clinical Staff)
Booking online is often the quickest method for healthcare professionals, as calling the helpline 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 patient’s contact details, GP details, and any preferences regarding 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 your patient 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
Patients can call Mindline Somerset directly on 01823 276 892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
Call handlers can offer immediate telephone support and, where necessary, book a Crisis Safe Space appointment over the phone. If a professional calls on behalf of a patient, please note that the handler may ask to speak directly with the patient to confirm key 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.