We recognise that it takes great courage and strength to reach out for help. Safety Net is a free service supporting the recovery of those affected by rape, exploitation, sexual and domestic abuse in Cumbria.
We offer telephone, video, face-to-face and email therapy and support. We offer support to adults, children, young people, and family members, including people in the LGBTQ+, BAME and neurodivergent communities. Our therapeutic support is always mindful of how identity and differences interact with our experiences.
Our trauma-informed approach ensures that our services are sensitive to the profound impact trauma can have on both the mind and body. Our trauma-informed practitioners help you process what has happened to you so you can start to move forward. To learn more about our trauma-informed approach, please click here.
We are always open to receiving feedback. We hope you are delighted with our service, but if for any reason you need to make a complaint, our Complaints Policy will show you the process you need to go through.
If you’ve been referred to Safety Net before but were not eligible or support ended due to non-engagement, please wait three months before referring again. This allows time for you to be better prepared and ready for recovery support. We know this might be frustrating, but your well-being is our priority. In the meantime, explore our website for helpful resources, videos, and support information.
Safety Net offers a 4-tiered approach to provide wrap-around trauma-informed support for adults, children and young people who have experienced abuse.
When you first come to us, we will talk with you about your situation, your safety and the support you may need. We will complete an initial assessment to understand your needs, explore your readiness for recovery and explain the support available. Together, we will identify the next steps, whether that is accessing Safety Net services or being referred to another organisation. If you are waiting to access further support, we can also provide check-ins during this time.
Our Trauma-Informed Practitioners provide one-to-one support for adults and young people, helping you to feel safer, more settled and better able to cope with the impact of trauma. This support is not counselling, but offers a safe space to explore your experiences, understand trauma responses and develop coping strategies. We can also support practical aspects of recovery, such as housing, legal processes and financial concerns. Parent and carer support groups are also available.
We provide trauma-informed counselling and therapy in a safe, confidential space. Our therapists use a range of therapeutic and creative approaches, working with you to agree the focus of your support and what you hope to achieve. Sessions are tailored to your individual needs and provide an opportunity to explore experiences at your own pace.
Children and Young People Therapy
For children and young people, we offer creative, child-centred therapy that supports expression through play, creativity and therapeutic activities. Our therapists follow the child’s lead, helping them build confidence, resilience and a sense of safety. We also work alongside parents and caregivers to strengthen understanding, relationships and ongoing support for the child. Specialist support for sexualised behaviour is available where appropriate.
Recovery does not end when counselling finishes. We offer opportunities to reconnect with others and become part of a supportive community through befriending, peer-led groups, volunteering and community activities. These opportunities help individuals build confidence, develop meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging at a pace that feels right for them.
Our services for children and young people follow a similar tiered approach, working alongside parents and carers and adapting support to meet individual needs. Click here for more information.
“I now have better coping mechanisms in place for dealing with PTSD, depression and anxiety. In every session, I always felt like I was listened to and that my feelings or past trauma were taken seriously.”
