Two new mental health "safe havens" for teenagers have opened in Newcastle and Gateshead. Run in partnership by charities Children North East and Everyturn, the initiative aims to pilot providing "welcoming, non-clinical" support for young people aged 13 to 17 who may be struggling.
Walk-in Support Available Evenings
The walk-in venues are open from 4pm to 8pm. The Newcastle venue, located at the Beacon on Westgate Road, launched in April and operates Monday to Thursday. The Gateshead premises, at 14 Regent Terrace, opened its doors on Friday June 19 and operates Friday to Sunday.
The free support sees teams work closely with schools, local councils, and the NHS to provide help to youngsters when they need it. 18-year-olds who are still in full-time education can also drop in, and no referral is required.
Charities Express Commitment
Mandy Coppin, head of children's and young people's services at Everyturn, commented on the Gateshead opening. She said: "We're thrilled to be opening Nook Gateshead today and extend our service to even more children and young people in the region, continuing to show our commitment to listening to young people and creating support that truly meets their needs."
She added: "Both Nook Newcastle and Nook Gateshead offer the right support at the right time, without judgement or barriers, and we’re here to make sure every young person who accesses our services feels supported so no one has to struggle alone."
Leigh Elliott, Children North East chief executive, said: "This is another important step forward in our mission to support young people across the region. Expanding our offer into Gateshead will enable us to reach young people in crisis - when they need us and where they live."
He continued: "Together with Everyturn, we are committed to ensuring every young person has the tools they need to grow up happy and healthy, and with strong mental wellbeing. This new drop‑in service is a vital lifeline, providing immediate support to young people in crisis and ensuring they receive the right help, at the right time."
For more information, visit the charities' websites or contact them directly.
