The Wellbeing Café is a monthly, in-person group for adult survivors of sexual violence who are on our counselling waiting list or have been accepted to the wellbeing service.

It’s a gentle alternative to counselling and a supportive space for people on our waiting list. Every session blends grounding skills, accessible psychoeducation, creative activities, and low-pressure opportunities to meet others who “get it.”

The cafés sit at the heart of our new wellbeing pathway, offering a safe first step into support for people who may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. Survivors have told us that waiting for therapy can feel long and lonely — the café exists so that waiting doesn’t mean being unsupported .

What to expect

Each café has a theme based on what survivors have said would help—topics like sleep, triggers, self-care, grounding, managing the festive season, and reconnecting with your body. You choose how much or little to join in. 

Sessions are run by our wellbeing team and held in a spacious, quiet room at Scotia Works. Everything is designed to feel calm, predictable, and safe, including:

• Opening grounding exercises

• A short, accessible workshop

• Time for gentle connection or creative work

• Closing check-out and signposting

Who it’s for

The cafés are open to:

• Survivors on SRASAC’s counselling waiting list

• People assessed at SRASAC and recommended for Wellbeing sessions. 

We keep groups small (up to 12 people) so the space feels manageable and safe .

Why it helps

The cafés help reduce isolation, build confidence, and give people practical skills to manage trauma symptoms while they wait for counselling. Survivors attending support whilst they wait often feel more grounded and better prepared when therapy begins .

How to join

You’ll receive an invitation through our mailing list once you’ve been assessed or placed on the waiting list. Booking is free but required so we can manage space safely.