SAMH launch walk-in mental health hub in Aberdeen
A leading mental health charity is offering walk-in support to people across the North-east, following the opening of a transformational hub in Aberdeen. SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) is creating a national network of mental health and wellbeing support hubs, known as The Nook. Aberdeen is the second city to benefit. The first Nook opened in Glasgow last October and supported more than 3,000 visitors in just six months. SAMH hopes to launch Nooks in more communities in the coming years. The Nook has already started welcoming people from its base at Marischal Square, with a focus on a friendly and colourful environment instead of a clinical setting. An expert team is on hand for anyone in need of support, without the need for an appointment, referral or waiting list. The charity also operates more than 70 services in communities across the country, from mental health outreach to peer support.
Hazel McIlwraith is director of fundraising and major appeal at SAMH, and hopes The Nook will make a real difference for those in need. “The Nook offers stigma-free support in a cosy, non-clinical environment, seven days a week,” she said. “Set in a colourful, cosy and open-plan space, The Nook is designed to feel like home.” The design includes a homely kitchen table instead of a reception desk, with confidential chats available in snugs and family rooms instead of consultation booths.
“It doesn’t matter where you live or what you’d like to talk about,” said Hazel. “Anyone is welcome through the door to chat with our friendly, qualified team, or to sit and relax with a cuppa if they aren’t quite ready to chat just yet.” To find out more about The Nook and other services provided by SAMH, head to samh.org.uk or follow samhscotland on Instagram for more updates.