On Tuesday 5 May, a new community wellbeing initiative quietly opened its doors in the heart of Consett.
ImaginAble Me CIC officially launched Safe Haven, a free weekly creative wellbeing drop-in for adults aged 18 and over, hosted at The GloHouse on Medomsley Road.
Running every Tuesday from 12pm–2pm, Safe Haven has been created for adults who may be struggling with loneliness, anxiety, stress, isolation, overwhelm or low mood, or who simply need somewhere warm and welcoming to be for a couple of hours.
There are no referrals needed, no waiting lists, and no pressure to explain why you’ve come.
Attendees can enjoy a cuppa, gentle creative activities, mindful making, colouring, journaling, quiet conversation, or simply sit and exist in a supportive environment surrounded by other people.
The sessions take place inside The GloHouse, a vibrant graffiti-covered, UV-lit creative studio already known locally for its inclusive atmosphere and community-focused work with young people and families. Safe Haven expands that support into the adult community, offering a softer, calmer midweek space where people can reconnect, breathe and feel less alone.
“We know that not everybody feels comfortable accessing formal support services,” said Kaz Jervis from ImaginAble Me CIC.
“Sometimes people don’t need fixing. They just need kindness, conversation, creativity and somewhere they feel safe walking into. Safe Haven is exactly that. No judgement, no pressure, no beige community hall energy… just humans supporting humans in a space that feels welcoming and alive.”
Tee Keers from The GloHouse added:
“The GloHouse has always been about creating a place where people feel accepted the second they walk through the door. Safe Haven brings that same energy to adults who might be carrying a lot behind the scenes. If someone walks in feeling anxious, isolated or overwhelmed and leaves feeling even 10% lighter, then that matters. Sometimes a cup of coffee, some colour, and knowing somebody sees you can make a bigger difference than people realise.”
The project has been made possible thanks to funding from Pioneering Care Partnership through the Happiness Hubs programme, alongside additional support from Karbon Homes.
Safe Haven will continue weekly over the next 12 months, helping adults across Consett and surrounding areas access creativity, connection and community in an informal and accessible way.
Because sometimes the most important thing a place can say is:
“You’re welcome here.”
