Havant and East Hants Mind (HEH Mind) is excited to announce the launch of a urgent fundraising campaign to support their essential Safe Haven services. With increasing funding cuts to mental health care services, this campaign is vital to continue providing free, accessible wellbeing and crisis support to individuals across South and East Hampshire. The campaign will be running until March 2025, with the hope of raising £25,000.

HEH Mind’s current crisis services include two Safe Havens (one for adults aged over 18, and one for young people aged 11 to 17) that offer out-of-hours help and support to individuals and their carers experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. These Safe Havens are designed to be a sanctuary where individuals can develop short-term coping strategies and work towards building long-term resilience and understanding of other support systems available to them.

Safe Havens provide a safe and confidential space for those struggling with their mental health or wellbeing, offering immediate emotional support from qualified Wellbeing Practitioners. For young people, the Young Persons Safe Haven also includes activities such as mindfulness, art and crafts, and peer support, creating a nurturing environment where they can find solace and understanding. Our Safe Havens provide support for those across South and East Hampshire, including individuals in Portsmouth, Havant, Emsworth, Waterlooville, Hayling, Petersfield, Alton and Bordon.

"We are witnessing an unprecedented demand for mental health services, and our Safe Havens are a lifeline for many in our community," said Julie Parker, CEO of HEH Mind. "With funding for mental health care services being significantly reduced, the support from our community through this fundraising campaign is more important than ever. It will ensure that we can continue to provide these critical services free of charge to those who need them most."

The fundraising campaign aims to raise £25,000 over the next 10 months, which will be directly allocated to maintaining and enhancing the Safe Haven services. This will include covering operational costs, expanding the range of activities and support available at the Young Persons Safe Haven, and ensuring that qualified practitioners are available to provide immediate assistance.

HEH Mind invites the community, local businesses, and stakeholders to contribute to this vital cause. Donations can be made through the HEH Mind website or by participating in upcoming fundraising events detailed on the site.

Get involved and support Safe Havens today!

· Donate at Just Giving Link

· Share the campaign link and encourage support

· Set up and event /fundraising activity and support the campaign

Our Fundraising Team can help you link your efforts to the campaign totals and celebrate your achievements.

About Havant and East Hants Mind

Havant and East Hants Mind is a registered charity committed to promoting mental health and wellbeing within the local community. HEH Mind provides a range of free-to-access services, including crisis support, wellbeing activities, and educational programs, aiming to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

For more information about the fundraising campaign or to make a donation, please visit HEH Mind's website or contact fundraising@easthantsmind.org