The Welcome Lounge
Now open every Monday – Wednesday 10-4 (Closed Bank Holidays)
Welcome to the Welcome Lounge! It’s a warm and friendly space where you can drop in, have a chat, and get support to find wellbeing services that are right for you.
Our Welcome Lounge Assistants are here to guide you to the right resources, including a variety of Family Hub services. They’re happy to spend time with you, helping you explore your options.
While they don’t offer advice or solutions, they’re here to help you understand what’s available and support you as you find the help that fits your needs. Feel free to reach out and pop in to the Welcome Lounge—we’re here to help you!
Questions
What can I expect when I visit?
When you arrive, a Welcome Lounge assistant will greet you and offer the chance to talk about what’s on your mind. Together, you can explore your options, or the assistant can gather relevant information for you. If you’d prefer, we can print the information off so you can take it away with you.
If you’re not comfortable using a computer, no worries—we can explore the options together while you’re in the Welcome Lounge.
What kind of things can you help with?
We can help you explore services that offer support with:
- benefits advice
- debt
- housing
- legal assistance
- family and children’s services
- Carers
- people with disabilities
- Mental health
While we don’t provide these services directly, we’ll guide you to the right places where you can get the support you need.
Access Wellbeing can also provide mental health support on a Monday
Why have a Welcome Lounge?
The Welcome Lounge serves as a valuable community resource, offering a friendly and supportive environment where people can access guidance and connect with the services they need. It helps bridge the gap between individuals and the wellbeing services available to them.
By providing a space where people can have open conversations, the Welcome Lounge makes it easier to explore options, gather information, and feel supported in taking the next steps. It’s especially beneficial for those who may need extra help navigating services or are unsure where to start. Ultimately, the Welcome Lounge fosters a sense of community, making it easier for individuals to find the right help and improve their well-being.
Is there any cost to use the Welcome Lounge?
No the Welcome Lounge is free to all.
Do I need to make an appointment or can I just drop in
You don’t need to make an appointment, just drop-in. Check the opening times first so you’re not disappointed.
Is the service confidential?
Yes absolutely. Your privacy is important to us and we ensure that all information shared with us remains confidential.
However, if there are any safeguarding concerns, such as potential harm to yourself or others, we may need to share information with relevant authorities to ensure your safety and well being.
What are the opening times?
We will be open every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 10am – 4pm
Can I visit the Welcome Lounge more than once?
Of course!
Can someone else accompany me to the Welcome Lounge?
Yes, absolutely! You’re welcome to bring someone with you for support. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or carer.
Are children allowed in the Welcome Lounge?
Yes, children are absolutely welcome in the Welcome Lounge! We understand that family situations can sometimes mean bringing your little ones along, we have made the Welcome Lounge a friendly space for everyone and have a small selection of things to keep little ones happy.
Is the Welcome lounge accessible for people with disabilities?
We try to ensure that the Lounge is accessible for people with disabilities. We’ve made sure the space is designed to accommodate a range of needs, including wheelchair access and other accessibility features to ensure everyone feels comfortable and welcome.
What if I need support outside of regular hours?
Medical support ring 111 or 999
If you need urgent mental Health Support please ring Connection Dorset, offering a free 24/7 helpline 0800 652 0190 you can also access this service via 111
Connection is a round-the-clock helpline for people of all ages, anywhere in Dorset, who are experiencing mental health problems and need support. Staff are trained to support anyone who calls, regardless of the level of mental health crisis, and can signpost you to the most appropriate service which meets your needs.
Facing Homelessness contact Julian House 01305 236 585 https://www.julianhouse.org.uk/