There is hope.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, or just need somewhere calm to be — the Lake Mac Safe Space is here for you. You don’t need an appointment or a referral. You can simply walk in and take a breath.

This is a non-clinical, community-led space — a warm, friendly place that offers an alternative to hospital emergency departments when you’re in emotional distress or suicidal crisis. Everyone who visits is called a guest, not a client or patient, because this space is yours. You’ll be met with respect, care, and understanding — never judgment.

Our team members, called Peer CARE Companions, all have their own lived experience of suicide. They’ve been through their own pain and recovery, and they truly understand how hard things can feel. They’re trained to listen, to support you safely, and to walk alongside you — at your pace, in your own way.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by someone who understands what it’s like to feel lost, tired, or hopeless. You’ll never be rushed or told what to do — this is your time, your space.

You might want to sit quietly for a while, have a cup of tea, talk with someone who listens, or just rest. You can share as much or as little as you want. Our aim is to help you feel safe, supported, and less alone in what you’re going through.

We work in a trauma-informed way, which means we understand how past experiences can affect how you feel and respond now. We respect your story, your choices, and your need for safety. Everything we do is about helping you find calm, connection, and a sense of hope — even if just for today.

The Lake Mac Safe Space includes different rooms and areas so you can choose what feels right for you:

Sensory Room – A quiet, calming place with gentle lighting and sounds to help you slow down and breathe.

Art Experience Area – A creative space where you can express yourself through drawing, painting, or simple art activities.

Hospitality Area – A welcoming space to sit, have a cuppa, and talk (or not talk) with others who understand.

Private Meeting Room – A quiet, confidential room for one-on-one support if you’d prefer privacy or anonymity.

Relaxation Area – A relaxed area with games, books, and a massage chair — somewhere to unwind and reconnect.

You can stay for a few minutes or a few hours. You can talk or stay silent. You can cry, draw, laugh, breathe — whatever helps you feel even a little lighter.

At the Lake Mac Safe Space, you’re not alone. There’s a community here that understands and cares. You matter, and we’re here to walk with you — one step, one breath at a time.