New pop-up Listening Hub opens in Cabot Circus, offering a safe space to talk
Hope Against Suicide has opened a new pop-up Listening Hub in Cabot Circus, offering adults across Bristol a free, welcoming space to talk openly about whatever they’re facing – from everyday worries to mental health struggles and suicidal thoughts.
The hub has been designed as a calm, comfortable and non-clinical environment where anyone aged 18 or over can drop in without an appointment and be met by trained volunteers offering compassionate, judgement-free listening.
Located on the top floor of Cabot Circus, next to Pizza Express and opposite The Entertainer, the pop-up hub will be open until January, providing an accessible place for anyone struggling with their mental health.
The opening comes at a time when demand for mental health support is growing. Suicide rates in Bristol are higher than the UK average for both men and women, according to Bristol City Council’s Joint Strategic Needs Assessment – and they’re on the rise. We hope the new listening hub will make it easier for people to seek support before they reach crisis point.
The unit has been generously provided by Cabot Circus, with volunteers transforming the space into a warm and welcoming environment with support from local businesses including Brewers, Wickes, SCA Ltd, and Portishead Parish Wharf Sports Centre.
Our founder and CEO, Clare Kemp, said: “At Hope Against Suicide, we believe nobody should have to face life’s challenges alone. Sometimes what people need most is someone who will simply listen without judgement.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring this pop-up listening hub into the centre of Bristol. By creating a welcoming, non-clinical space where anyone can walk in and talk, we hope to encourage more people to reach out before they’re in crisis. We also hope it helps raise awareness that support is available, and that no one has to struggle in silence.”
Laura Reynolds, Destination Director at Cabot Circus, said: “We are extremely proud to be able to welcome the Listening Hub as a space for our community. This is a great addition to the Centre and a fantastic product of a long term partnership we have with our charity partner and our commitment to supporting our community.”
Visitors are welcome to drop in during opening hours: 10:30am-15:30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 14:30-17:30pm on Saturdays. The service is free to use, with no referral or appointment required.
If you’re struggling in any way, please do stop in and say hello. You will always be welcomed and listened to without judgement.
