FAQs

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions. If you'd like to find out more or have a chat about coming, do send us a message, we'd be happy to help.

What is Pepper's- A Safe Place?

We offer community mental health support across Rutland and Melton Mowbray.

Please see our 'About us' section or take a look at our services.

Do I have to have been diagnosed with a Mental Health illness to join?

No! Pepper's is a safe place for everyone, whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, worried, lonely or your mental health just isn't in the best place. Not sure if Pepper's is for you? Why not come in and find out or give us a call.

When are you open?

We have regular drop-in sessions every week, please see our services for specific dates. We are planning to open on further days as the need arises but please keep checking this website or follow us on facebook via the icon at the bottom of the page for further updates.

Is there wheelchair access?

Unfortunately our Oakham premises is not accessible to wheelchair users as we are based on the first floor. However, our Melton premises is fully accessible, as is our Oakham gardening project.

Does it cost anything to come to Pepper's - A Safe Place?

There is no charge to come to Pepper’s - A Safe Place. We do, however, ask for a £1 donation for as many cups of tea or coffee and biscuits as you wish.

Are there any clinicians involved?

No. We offer a warm friendly space to meet, relax and chat but there is no clinical input.

Are there any age restrictions?

You must be 18 or over.

Can I bring a friend, family member or support worker?

Yes. Many of our members are more confident coming with someone they know, they'd be more than welcome.

How do I find you?

We are based at 2A High Street, Oakham LE15 6AL, at the Oakham library end of the High Street and based on the first floor above the café Strays. You can also find us in Melton at 53 King Street, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1XB, opposite the Regal Cinema.

What happens at Pepper's - A Safe Place?

Pepper’s - A Safe Place offers people wanting to improve their mental health an opportunity to meet others, to chat over coffee or tea, to make friends and share experiences.  We offer, on different months, informal cookery lessons, Tai Chi, art, music and many more activities. Pepper’s - A Safe Place is informal, friendly and fun where members can be as sociable or as quiet as they wish.

Why are people who come to Pepper's - A Safe Place called Members? Do you have to join?

No. We are not a club that people join. Simply put there was no other word we could think of that worked – users, customers, patients – all sounded wrong so we settled on Members!

I'm feeling too nervous to attend a Pepper's session

It can be really daunting joining a new group, meeting new people and trying new things. Give us a call to go over any questions or worries you may have.

Who can I call in a mental health crisis?

If you need urgent help:

Call 999 for urgent medical assistance.

NHS Urgent Mental Health Helpline 0808 800 3302 (NHS LPT)

Samaritans 116 123

SHOUT (text support) 85258

Further help can be found at:

(Opening hours vary)

Mind 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

The Mix (for under 25s) 0808 808 4994

Papyrus HOPELINEUK (under 35s with suicidal feelings) 0800 068 4141