Castlemaine Safe Space (CaSS) recently reached the landmark of being open for four years! To celebrate, peer volunteers and the working group gathered to acknowledge this achievement. Entering its fifth year, Safe Space is celebrating having opened for 375 shifts, receiving over 1600 guest visits in that time. Due to a gradual increase in the number of peer
volunteers, Safe Space was able to add a third weekly shift a year ago, alongside its very popular food pantries- one is located inside the building and one is available 24/7 on the verandah.
Guest visits have increased from an average of 45 per month (July-Dec 2025) to 80 per month this year. Word is out in our local community about what is on offer at CaSS!
One goal of CaSS is to contribute to lowering the rate of suicide in the local community, and it is hoped these guest numbers correlate with guests feeling more connected in their lives.
Safe Space is a calm, inclusive, non-clinical environment for everyone.
Peer volunteers are on duty during shifts for guests who may be feeling distressed, wanting some quiet space to be, or someone warm, caring and non-judgmental to talk with, and for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts who seek assistance that feels safe and allows people to make their own choices. Safe Space will not contact emergency services unless guests request or agree.At the core of CaSS is its dedicated and passionate volunteers. All its peer volunteers have lived experience of suicide, greatly enhancing their capacity to be present for the broad range of conversations that unfold at Safe Space. Training for peer volunteers is comprehensive, evidence-based and purposeful. Peer Volunteers are also involved in promoting Safe Space at public events including market stalls, assisting with organising fundraising events and attending peer volunteer social gatherings four times a year. If you would like to join this community of volunteers, please get in touch via Castlemaine Safe Space’s Facebook page or by emailing volunteers@castlemainesafespace.org
CaSS received seed funding from Roses in the Ocean for its first three years, thus covering some of its costs. During the past year, CaSS has managed to maintain its viability through some additional financial support from the council, other philanthropic organisations such as Rotary and also generous support from individuals. Without this support, Safe
Space would not be able to operate from the warm and welcoming house it rents at 74 Mostyn Street. Donations enable CaSS to survive
and thrive, and if you are interested in donating funds or services, please contact us, or donate directly via the link on our website www.castlemainesafespace.org, where you can also find out about volunteering opportunities.
Safe Space is open to receive guests every week, at 74 Mostyn Street on Tuesdays 4- 6.30 pm, Thursdays 9.30 am- 12 pm and Saturdays 1.30 pm- 4 pm.
Everyone is welcome to drop in.