BLOG: Oakleaf Launches ‘Open Door’ Drop-In Service for Young People 

05 Aug BLOG: Oakleaf Launches ‘Open Door’ Drop-In Service for Young People 

As we mark Suicide Prevention Week (7^th – 13^th September 2025), it’s vital to highlight the urgent need for support for young people facing complex mental health challenges. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among people aged 18–30, and early, accessible intervention can be life-saving. 

That’s why Oakleaf is proud to launch ‘Open Door’, a new weekly drop-in service in Guildford for young adults aged 18–30. This out-of-hours service is designed to offer a safe, welcoming space for young people to talk, connect, and receive support. 

Open Door is facilitated by two specialist Young Adult Support Workers and co-designed with the people it supports. Each session provides: 

• A relaxed, non-judgmental environment 

• Support for those feeling isolated or overwhelmed 

• Early intervention during mental health crises 

• Pathways to further support and services 

The service hopes to welcome around 10 young people each week, with plans to grow through local partnerships, including with the University of Surrey. 

“This group is a chance for young people to face life’s challenges together. Whether you’re overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to connect with others who get it, you’re welcome here.” – Nick Moorby, Oakleaf Young Adult Support Worker 

“I’m really proud to be part of this new support group. Young people deserve a space to be heard, supported, and reminded they’re not alone.” – Georgia Pearson, Oakleaf Young Adult Support Worker 

This initiative is part of a larger suicide prevention project funded through the Mental Health Scale-Up (MHSU) Fund. This fund is administered through the Community Foundation for Surrey and backed by donations from Surrey County Council, The NHS Surrey Heartlands, and private foundations.

To ensure a holistic approach, we are working collaboratively with three key partners: 

• Guildford Action: Providing one-to-one suicide prevention support, access to essential services, and running peer support groups. 

• The Hope Hub and Rentstart: Delivering dedicated wellbeing services and involving young people in co-designing and co-producing the programme, including suicide prevention awareness in Northwest Surrey. 
• This partnership aims to enhance service delivery and effectively address the eneds of young adults managaing their mental health across Surrey.

Support for Parents and Carers 

Alongside Open Door, Oakleaf is also running a weekly support group for parents and carers of young people experiencing suicidal thoughts and mental health challenges. Delivered primarily online for accessibility, this group offers: 

• Peer support and connection 

• Skill-sharing and guidance 

• A safe space to feel heard and understood 

Oakleaf is committed to supporting over 300 young people over the next five years through this expanded offering, strengthening our mission to prevent suicide and improve mental health outcomes across Surrey. 

For more information about Open Door or the Parents & Carers Support Group, visit: 
www.oakleaf-enterprise.org/open-door 

Learn Suicide First Aid with Oakleaf 

Oakleaf is now offering Suicide First Aid: Understanding Suicide Intervention, a nationally accredited training course led by Olivia Louise-Hamilton. This interactive course is open to anyone, with no prior experience in mental health required. 

• Choose from half-day or full-day options 

• Optional Level 4 qualification from the Royal Society for Public Health 

• Ideal for professionals, volunteers, and community members 

All proceeds from the course go directly back into Oakleaf’s services. 

To find out more or to book your place, please contact Chris: chriscrooker@oakleaf-enterprise.org  

If You or Someone You Know Needs Support 

Remember: you are not alone, and help is always available. 

Whether you’re struggling yourself, worried about a friend, or just need someone to talk to, please don’t wait. There are people who care and are ready to support you. 

Here are some trusted local and national services: 

Guildford Safe Haven: (open every evening 6pm–11pm): 
Oakleaf Enterprise, Guildford, GU1 4UQ 
www.oakleaf-enterprise.org/safe-haven  

Surrey and Borders NHS Mental Health Crisis Line: 
0800 915 4644 (24/7) 

Samaritans: Free, confidential support 24/7 
116 123 | www.samaritans.org 

Shout: Free, confidential text support 
Text SHOUT to 85258 | www.giveusashout.org 

PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK: Support for young people at risk of suicide 
0800 068 41 41 | www.papyrus-uk.org