Safe Haven is a mental health service that provides a safe alternative to the emergency department for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress. Safe Haven, together with Head to Health, provide a community driven space for people seeking immediate mental health support to receive compassionate and responsive assistance in a place where people can sit, talk, and reflect. No appointment or referral is required.

The integration of Safe Haven within the already established Head to Health centre is unique and ensures that key services across the region know what support is available and who can access it. It means that when someone reaches out, they’re linked with the most appropriate service for their needs, as soon as they need it, improving the overall experience of accessing mental health support.

The NSW Government has committed $45.7 million to the Safe Haven initiative as part of the $143.4 million investment across four years in Towards Zero Suicides initiatives. There are currently 19 Safe Havens open across NSW.

Safe Haven is located within the Penrith Head to Health Centre, 111 Henry St, Penrith. The centre is open seven days a week, 1pm to 9:30 pm Monday, Wednesday - Sunday (including public holidays), and 1pm - 5pm Tuesday.

NSW Health Principal Policy Offer Mental Health - Nikki Maloney, NSW Member for Penrith - Stuart Ayres MP, Neami National Executive Director Research, Engagement and Advocacy - Elisabeth Tuckey, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Chief Executive - Kay Hyman, Deputy Commissioner Mental Health Commission of NSW - Daniel Angus, Wentworth Healthcare Executive Manager Strategy & Integration - Elisa Manley