Shropshire Sanctuary (professional referral only)
Shropshire Sanctuary is a multi-award-winning out-of-hours mental health service that supports people in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin. This service is accessible by referral only through emergency services (Police, Ambulance, Access Team and Crisis Team).
Our Support
At Shropshire Sanctuary, we provide a safe, welcoming space for people who are experiencing emotional distress, mental health crisis, or thoughts of suicide.
Our trained staff take the time to listen, understand what’s happening for you, and help you explore the support that will best meet your needs.
We can provide:
- Person-centred compassionate, non-judgemental listening
- Help to reduce immediate distress and keep you safe
- Emotional and practical support – We can discuss support options that may be helpful to you
- Consider support that focuses on your whole situation, not just the immediate crisis you’re facing
- Discuss a safety plan if immediate risks are present
- A fully funded taxi from Shropshire Sanctuary to your home or a safe space following your visit
- Provide follow-up support through Shropshire MHS’ other support services
Our Approach
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into a calm, supportive environment by people who understand that reaching out for help can be difficult. Every person’s experience is different, which is why our support is tailored to the individual and their situation – there is no judgement and no expectations.
We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, respect and compassion, especially during their most difficult moments.
The Difference We Make
Shropshire Sanctuary was established in June 2017 and was designed to offer a more humanistic and compassionate approach to those with mental health struggles, ensuring people receive immediate support in a warm, friendly environment that respects their dignity.
Since opening, the service has:
- Supported thousands of people during times of crisis
- Helped avert more than 5,000 potential suicides
- Reduced the need for emergency interventions
- Saved the equivalent of four full-time police officers’ capacity each year
- Saved public services an estimated £50 million by helping prevent unnecessary Section 136 detentions
- Become a recognised model of good practice, with other counties seeking to develop similar services
These positive outcomes reflect the impact that timely, compassionate support can have on people’s lives and their wellbeing.
To find out more about this service, please call 01743 368 647 or fill out an enquiry form on our Contact Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a time limit on how long I can stay?
No. We understand that every person and every situation is different. Support is provided based on your individual needs rather than a fixed time limit. If you need time to process your thoughts and feelings – to simply sit quietly in a safe space, this can be supported too.
Can I access the Sanctuary if I’m feeling suicidal?
Yes. Supporting people who are experiencing thoughts of suicide or significant emotional distress is a core part of what we do. Our team will work with you to help keep you safe and provide the support you need.
What if I don’t know what to say?
Our trained staff understand that it can be difficult to ask for help, and when you feel overwhelmed, talking about it can sometimes be challenging. Our team will help gently guide the conversation and support you at your own pace.
Can I use drugs or alcohol on the premises?
No. Drugs and alcohol are not permitted on the premises however we can support individuals who are under the influence provided that it does not impact on their communication skills and ability to engage with the service. If you have concerns about this or are unsure whether the Sanctuary is the right service for you, please contact us to discuss your situation.
How do I get to the Sanctuary?
If a referral is made by the Police or Ambulance service, they will bring you in. Referrals from the Access Team, or Crisis Team – you will need to make your own way in, but Shropshire MHS can fund transport to get you home or to a safe space after your visit.
What happens after I leave?
We can provide you with a follow-up call from our Telephone Support team so we can further discuss our support services that are readily available to you. Where appropriate, we can also help you identify ongoing sources of support and connect you with other services that may be able to help you beyond your immediate crisis