ABOUT US
The Hub
Opened in August 2023, The Crisis Intervention Hub CIC began as a small, dedicated space designed to support adults in crisis on Portland. Driven by a deep commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of our community, what started as a modest initiative has grown into a multifaceted service offering vital support to those in need.
Located at Suites 2 and 4, Yeates Corner, and Easton Shopping Centre, The Hub provides a free, face-to-face crisis intervention service available 7 days a week, from 8 am to 8 pm. With a focus on practical solutions, we offer services such as safety planning, well-being boxes, and up to six sessions of therapy. These resources are designed to help individuals navigate their mental health challenges, reduce anxiety, and build resilience for the future.
A Growing Network of Support
Since its inception, The Hub has expanded to include additional safe spaces and community initiatives, creating a broader network of care and support:
The Cozy Corner Wellbeing Lounge: A relaxed and welcoming space where service users can take part in activities, enjoy a chat over a cup of tea, or simply connect with others in a supportive environment.
The Pit Stop Community Shop: Offering affordable essential toiletries and cleaning supplies, this initiative helps ease the financial burden for all residents, reflecting our belief in addressing environmental factors that affect mental health.
The Sanctuary Charity Shop: Supporting our mission through community donations and sales, with proceeds directly benefiting our services and expanding our ability to help those in need.
Together, these services form a holistic approach to mental health support, addressing not just immediate crises but also fostering a sense of community, connection, and long-term well-being.
Our journey from a tiny crisis intervention space to a comprehensive hub of support has been made possible by the unwavering dedication of our volunteers and the trust of our community. The Hub is more than just a service; it’s a lifeline, a sanctuary, and a testament to the power of compassion and collective action.
Hello, I’m Izzy.
I am the founder and Therapist at The Sanctuary.
With over 37 years of roots in the Weymouth area and the last decade spent on Portland, I am deeply connected to this community. As a mother of four grown-up children, I’ve witnessed the unique challenges and triumphs of family life, which have shaped my understanding of resilience and human connection.
I bring lived experience as a mental health service user, having faced and navigated my own mental health challenges. These experiences fuel my passion for helping others and provide me with a unique perspective on the journey toward healing and wellbeing.
Following a fulfilling 13-year career in the police force, I transitioned into the field of mental health, where I found my true calling as a therapist. I now run a private therapy practice based on Portland, offering compassionate and professional support to individuals seeking to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
My qualifications include a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Counselling, and I am currently pursuing an MSc in Health Psychology at UWE Bristol. I also hold several Level 4 Diplomas in various counselling techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as a DHP Acc. Hyp. certification in hypnotherapy. As a graduate member of the British Psychological Society, I stay informed about the latest research and best practices in the field, and I am fully insured to provide therapeutic services.
I am honored to contribute my skills and experience to The Sanctuary Crisis Hub and The Cozy Corner Wellbeing Lounge. These spaces represent my commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment where people can find hope, connection, and the tools to rebuild their lives.
Hi I’m Kieshia,
I am A director of The Sanctuary.
As a lifelong resident of Weymouth and mum to my energetic three-year-old, Henry, I have a deep connection to this area and its people. Growing up and living here has given me a profound understanding of the unique challenges our community faces, particularly on Portland, where access to essential services can often be limited.
My career in the public sector has brought me face-to-face with individuals who are struggling to access the support they need due to long waiting lists or geographical barriers. Witnessing the impact of this lack of access on people’s mental health and wellbeing has been both heart-wrenching and motivating. It’s a constant reminder of how crucial it is to have services that are not only available but accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live.
When my mum first shared her vision of The Sanctuary Crisis Hub and The Cozy Corner Wellbeing Lounge, I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of it. Seeing the struggles that people endure—both in my professional role and in personal encounters—made it clear that this community-focused initiative was not just important but absolutely necessary.
Being part of The Sanctuary allows me to contribute to something that is making a real difference in people’s lives. I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that is so dedicated to supporting mental health and wellbeing on Portland and in the wider Weymouth area.
For me, The Sanctuary is more than a service—it’s a lifeline for those who need it most. It’s a privilege to help create a safe, welcoming space where people can find support, connection, and hope. This enterprise is a true reflection of the strength and compassion of our community, and I couldn’t be prouder to call myself a part of it.
Hi I’m Kevin,
I am A director of The Sanctuary.
Born and raised in Weymouth, I am deeply committed to the wellbeing of our local community. With a long history of supporting individuals with mental health challenges, I spent 15 fulfilling years working with Abilities, where I gained invaluable experience in providing care and understanding to those in need. Now working in the public sector, I continue to champion the importance of accessible and effective mental health services.
When I was invited to join The Sanctuary Crisis Hub as a director, I didn’t hesitate to accept. I’ve seen firsthand the pressing need for a service like this on Portland, where access to mental health support is often limited. Being part of this vital provision is an honor, and I’m proud to contribute to an initiative that makes such a tangible difference in people’s lives.
In addition to my passion for mental health advocacy, I bring technical expertise and behind-the-scenes support to the team. From troubleshooting IT challenges to streamlining processes, I’m dedicated to ensuring that The Sanctuary runs smoothly and efficiently, so our team can focus on what they do best—supporting our community.
My unwavering support extends not only to the provision itself but also to the incredible people who make it possible. I’m inspired daily by the dedication and compassion of our volunteers and staff, and I’m proud to stand alongside them as we work together to create a safe, welcoming space for those who need it most.
For me, The Sanctuary is more than just a service—it’s a beacon of hope for those navigating mental health challenges, and I’m honored to be part of its journey.
Our Volunteers
At the heart of The Sanctuary Crisis Hub and The Cozy Corner Wellbeing Lounge is our incredible team of volunteers—a diverse and dedicated group of individuals aged 27 to 79. Every single one of them brings a unique perspective and shared compassion, as they all have lived experience with mental health challenges. This personal connection fuels their commitment to providing empathetic, non-judgmental support to those in need.
Our volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have worked within the care industry, while others bring valuable experience from different fields. Their combined skills and knowledge create a well-rounded team capable of addressing the diverse needs of our community. Many of our volunteers have pursued additional mental health qualifications and continue to expand their expertise through ongoing education. Their dedication to enhancing their skill sets ensures they can offer the highest quality of support to those who rely on our services.
Each member of our team has completed NHS-approved suicide awareness training and holds a current DBS certificate. This training equips them with the knowledge and confidence to respond to individuals in crisis, providing a vital lifeline when it’s needed most.
An Award-Winning Team
The outstanding contributions of our volunteers have not gone unnoticed. They’ve been recognized with awards for their service, a testament to their unwavering commitment and impact. Their willingness to go above and beyond—offering support, understanding, and kindness—is what makes The Sanctuary such a special place.
A Lifeline for Our Community
From spending hours talking to someone in crisis to providing practical help, such as organising The Pit Stop or simply sharing a cuppa and a chat at The Cozy Corner, our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do. Their spirit, resilience, and selflessness are an inspiration to us all.
We are incredibly proud of this remarkable group of people who dedicate their time and energy to making a real difference in the lives of others. Thanks to their hard work and compassion, The Sanctuary and The Cozy Corner continue to be safe, welcoming spaces for those navigating mental health challenges.
If you would like to become a member of our team please get in touch.
