Safe Haven: Peer-driven, After-Hours Mental Health Support in Salisbury

Safe Haven is a warm, welcoming space that offers immediate, person-centred mental health support to people experiencing emotional distress. 

Located at 9 John Street, Salisbury, Safe Haven is open Tuesday to Friday, 5–9 pm (including public holidays), offering an accessible, after-hours alternative to the emergency department.

The service is delivered by Peer Practitioners—people with lived experience of mental health challenges who provide genuine, non-judgemental support grounded in connection, empathy, and hope.

Guests can choose the type of support that feels right for them — whether that’s having a quiet conversation, sitting in a calm environment, or engaging in an activity. This flexibility ensures that each person is supported in a way that respects their individual needs.
 

Filling a critical gap

Safe Haven is designed for people who may not meet the threshold for acute mental health services but still need urgent support. For many people experiencing emotional distress, the emergency department can feel overwhelming, and clinical options may not always be the most appropriate or accessible. 

By offering a non-clinical, inclusive environment, Safe Haven fills this crucial gap in the mental health system. It also contributes to the step-up/step-down model of care, providing short-term de-escalation and linking people with other community, health, or social services as needed.

Accessible support

Safe Haven is open to anyone aged 16 and over, with no referral or appointment required. Guests can simply walk in during the centre’s opening hours and access support in a relaxed, confidential space.

This ease of access makes Safe Haven a valuable resource for GPs, mental health professionals, hospital staff, local councils, and community service providers who are looking for a safe, immediate option to recommend to individuals in distress.

A collaborative initiative

Safe Haven is delivered by Sonder in partnership with Adelaide PHN, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, the Northern Adelaide Mental Health Alliance, and the Lived Experience Leadership & Advocacy Network. This collaborative model ensures that Safe Haven is integrated with existing mental health services and contributes to a more connected and responsive support system across the northern region.

Find out more

To learn more, visit sonder.net.au/safe-haven, call (08) 8209 0700 or email info@sonder.net.au

Safe Haven is located at 9 John Street, Salisbury, and is open Tuesday to Friday from 5 – 9 pm (including public holidays).