The physical care space
Care spaces are all about helping people come back to mental equilibrium. Having a comfortable physical space goes a long way to achieving this.
Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere through lighting, decor, signage and staff attitudes will help draw curious passersby to the space. Not only will this help them return if they need it, but they can then also let their friends know about the space.
Location
The location of a care space at an event is important to making sure the service is recognised and used by guests and other care teams.
The layout of the care space can have a big impact on how people feel when they’re in the space. Care space staff will need to communicate with event organisers or venue staff about:
Photo by Ashlyn Hornsby
Physical needs for different types of events (e.g. a care space at a one-night event at an urban club may not have the same physical requirements as a multi-day outdoor music festival).
Whether the care space will be located indoors in an existing permanent building, or temporary structures (e.g. bell tents).
The number of areas the care space may need - such as areas for people requiring active support vs. people requiring rest/sleep.
How close the space is to places where people are frequently moving past (to increase awareness of the space), stages (to minimise excessive noise) and other ‘chill zones’ and immersive spaces (for people moving out of the care space). It is important that the care space is close enough to the activities that it can be easily found, but not so close that the activities around it impact the atmosphere inside.
Access to power and adequate lighting.
Access to toilets that are close enough to be accessible for people in care, but far enough away to avoid the smell.
Sufficient signage to help event attendees and other care teams find the care space and identify its purpose.
General accessibility features (e.g. wheelchair and other mobility device access, trip hazards).
Equipment and resources
Different events will need different physical equipment or resources to help maximise comfort, engagement and safety.
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Shelter and equipment that keeps people warm and dry if it’s cold and wet (e.g. tent, blankets, heater), and cool and comfortable if it’s hot (e.g. fans, misters).
The right lighting can help create a comfortable space. Soft warm lighting is imperative. It fosters an atmosphere of calm, whereas cool, bright or flashing lights can be overstimulating. Keep in mind that there also needs to be enough light to see within the space as well.
Minimise intense music and other loud noises, busy artwork, and strong smells.
Comfortable places to rest, equipped with beds, blankets and cushions.
Food (e.g. snacks such as fruit and lollies) and drink (e.g. water, tea and electrolytes), being mindful of potential dietary allergies, and avoid caffeine.
Basic necessities (toiletries, tampons, pads, condoms, earplugs, sunscreen, etc).
General accessibility features (e.g. wheelchair and other mobility device access, trip hazards).
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Sensory items, including fidget toys, cuddly toys, noise-dampening headphones and things to smell.
Arts and crafts supplies (e.g. colouring books and pens).
Soothing decor and art.
Posters, flyers or other resources that give people info that might be useful e.g. harm reduction information, or contact details for services.
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Well stocked first-aid kits.
Naloxone (a medicine that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose).
Vomit bags, towels and personal protective equipment.
Hygiene and cleaning equipment, such as rubber gloves and anti-bacterial wipes
Torches, and adequate indoor and outdoor lighting.
Info on where to find an AED.
Radios or other ways to communicate with organisers, staff and emergency teams (e.g. satellite phones, shared charged cellphones).
Contact information for organisers, staff and emergency response teams, and services outside of the event.
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Working together
Guidelines on working with event organisers, venue managers and staff, alcohol license holders, medics, security and more.
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Staffing care spaces
Tips to consider when recruiting, training and supporting your care space staff.