We are very sorry to inform you that our crisis prevention service, Safe Harbour, has been unable to secure the necessary funding to continue operating beyond the end of its pilot year.
As a result:
- Epsom Safe Harbour will close on 1 August 2025, and we are no longer accepting referrals to this site.
- Woking Safe Harbour, which began later, will remain open until 30 October 2025, with referrals accepted up to 15 September 2025. To make a referral to Woking Safe Harbour, please visit the Catalyst Support website.
We know this news will be disappointing to many. The feedback from both clients and referring partners has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing Safe Harbour as “life-changing”. Clients consistently highlighted the supportive staff, strong sense of community, and practical strategies gained through the programme. Referrers also noted the significant impact the service had on individuals’ mental health and wellbeing journeys.
Our evaluation showed clear improvements in clients’ wellbeing and a reduction in their use of other crisis services—demonstrating Safe Harbour’s real-world impact. In addition, our data revealed significant cost savings in mental health services across Surrey for those who completed the 6-week course. However, despite this success, the current financial climate has made continued funding unattainable.
We are incredibly proud of all that Safe Harbour has achieved in such a short time. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, and to our partners and referrers for their ongoing support and collaboration.
Please note that our Safe Haven service remains open for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. To find information on Safe Haven sites across Surrey, including locations and opening hours, please visit the Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SABP) website.
Other crisis service available in Surrey are listed on our Crisis Support page.
If you have any questions, please contact:
- Liz Wilson, Epsom Safe Harbour Manager – safeharbour@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
- Kat Elliott, Clinical Lead & Safeguarding Manager – katrina@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
