In March 2019 Derby City Mission launched Safe Space, a service providing entrenched rough sleepers with a ‘safe space’ to get help and support in the day and to be temporarily accommodated overnight. DCM is working in partnership with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office (OPPC), Public Health England, Derby Homes and East Midlands Ambulance Service to deliver this project.

Safe Space provides daytime accommodation for up to 12 guests at a time, and overnight this number is reduced to 8. Guests are able to access a shower if they require it, wash their clothes, have their health needs tended to by an on-site paramedic, have some basic food and drink, get warm, keep dry, engage in conversation, be listened to, or even watch the TV.

NEW FACILITY

Since launching Safe Space, we have moved to a new facility which has been converted into a specialist self contained unit that will include:

• Toilet and showers with disabled facilities
• Medical room
• Reception area, staff office and interview room
• Kitchenette and refreshment area
• Rest and recovery area
• New enclosed entrance and disabled ramp
• Entry control and security system

This project took place during 2020, during a challenging time for everyone. This didn't stop the developments and the facility opened to guests in June 2020.

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Read more about the journey to completion here: Safe Space Development

Coronavirus restrictions meant that we had to update the facility to allow for our guests to be accommodated safely overnight. In November 2020, specially designed sleeping pods were installed to allow for safe sleeping spaces.

SUPPORTING GUESTS TO MOVE ON

The high calibre of staff based in Safe Space are made up of passionate, experienced team that work with guests to move on. Sandra Dawkins and Liam Powers are our Safe Space Move On Support Workers and with funding from CRISIS support guests with appointments, life admin, employment opportunities and housing options.

HOW TO SUPPORT SAFE SPACE

If you feel that you'd like to support this great project, please visit our Safe Space Appeal page, where you can securely give financially. If you'd like to support by donating clothes or bedding, we can accept the following:

• Hats and gloves (as new)
• Underwear and socks (new) size small and medium only (male and female)
• Clean, new/as new sleeping bags
• Clean, new/as new fleece blankets

DONATE TO SAFE SPACE

Contact us for more information at [email protected]