Opening Times: Monday – Friday: 9am-9pm | Saturday: 9am-1pm | Sunday: 1pm-5pm 

Opening Times: Monday – Friday: 9am-9pm | Saturday: 9am-1pm | Sunday: 1pm-5pm 

Starting Your Journey
with Safe Spaces

Reaching out for help after experiencing abuse can feel daunting. You might be wondering: What happens when I contact Safe Spaces? Who will I speak to? What support will I get? This guide is here to walk you through the process, step by step, so you know what to expect and feel reassured that you’re not alone.

Whether it happened recently or many years ago, we’re here to offer:

  • Someone to listen without judgment
  • Emotional support when you need it most
  • Practical help and advocacy to make things easier

We’re completely independent from the Church. That means your safety, wellbeing, and wishes are always our priority.

 “Thanks for the support over the past few months and for helping me through what has been one of the biggest traumas on my life…”

What Happens When You Reach Out?

First Contact

When you call, email, or message us, you’ll speak to a Support Advisor.

 They’ll:

  • Listen to your story at your pace.
  • Offer immediate emotional support if you need it.
  • Explain what Safe Spaces can do for you.

If you’re eligible, they’ll guide you through the next steps. If not, they’ll help you find other services that can support you.

 “ I felt really supported and listened.
She helped me to navigate the safeguarding
system and to process my thoughts too”

Understanding Your Needs

Your Support Advisor will complete a Needs Assessment, a simple conversation about what matters most to you right now.

This helps us tailor support to your situation.

Ongoing Support

You’ll then be introduced to a Survivor Advocate, your dedicated support person.

They’ll:

  • Be your voice when things feel overwhelming.
  • Help you navigate safeguarding processes.
  • Explain your options in plain language.
  • Liaise with agencies like the police or safeguarding teams, always keeping your wishes central.

All our Advocates are trained Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), so if sexual violence was involved, you’ll have expert guidance every step of the way.

Keeping You Safe

Your Advocate will complete a risk assessment to make sure you’re safe and supported. This is updated whenever things change.

Your Choices Matter

If you’re unhappy with a decision or process, you have the right to raise an appeal or complaint. Your Advocate will explain your options and support you, without pressure. Everything is led by you.

Moving Forward

When you feel ready, your Advocate will help you close your case and connect you to peer support or other services for ongoing care.

Why Safe Spaces Exists

We know how hard it can be to trust a service connected to the Church. That’s why Safe Spaces is completely independent.

Here, you can speak openly without fear of judgment or bias. Your voice matters. Your wellbeing matters. And we’re here to walk alongside you, every step of the way.

 “It has been such a positive experience and the care and support I received has been
amazing”

Ready to Talk?

If you think Safe Spaces could help, reach out today. You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here when you’re ready.