What does it cost?

Nothing.
We are a charity.
We do of course have to raise a lot of money to keep going, so we are always very grateful if a guest wants to make a donation

What will I do all day?

There is no agenda or programme.
We do encourage lots of talking.
Some guests are able to catch up on sleep; some spend some time doing some ‘work’ on their problems, such as writing, drawing, painting, or reading something that helps; some go for walks.

Why only 4 days?

Maytree emphasises addressing and overcoming immediate suicidal crises.
These are often precipitated by life events, but are also likely to reflect some underlying difficulties.
The stay can be a turning point of long-term significance.

Do I have to eat with others?

Guests are encouraged to eat regularly, even if only a little, but we recognise that meals, shared or otherwise, can be an uncomfortable event for some people.

Do I get professional counselling or psychotherapy when staying?

No.
We offer befriending...
Our volunteers go through a process of selection and ongoing training: we share many of the same ideas but are not part of any particular professional body.
It is not within our role to diagnose or prescribe.
Some of the volunteers may be working outside of Maytree in a counselling, medical or therapeutic environment and they will inevitably bring something of that with them.
We cannot, and do not wish to, diagnose or prescribe or advise in the way that professional services can.

Who else is there at night?

While you are here there will always be two volunteers including overnight.
Sleep can often be an important part of the respite, or recovery, process, and guests are encouraged to try to sleep during the night.
However, at least one of the volunteers will be happy to stay up with you should you be feeling unwell or unable to sleep, or are simply valuing the company!

Do you keep records, and who has access to them?

We do keep records.
There will be a record of your first contact with Maytree, and your assessment.
Volunteers may then make notes to ensure continuity of care.
We hope this helps the guest as well.
Guests may ask to see their own notes.
We keep anonymous statistical records for funding purposes.
All records are confidential and are not seen by anyone outside Maytree unless requested by the guest.