About Soteria London
The Soteria Movement
Soteria London is part of an international movement which works to promote compassionate, person-centred responses to altered states and intense emotions. The term 'Soteria' originates from a Greek word meaning 'deliverance' or 'preservation'. The application of Soteria principles to people experiencing altered states was pioneered in the 1970s when the first 'Soteria houses' were established to provide a more humane alternative to psychiatric hospitals. Today, there is a global network of Soteria organisations looking to find ways to support people through challenging experiences in a way which is empowering, kind and free from harmful practices such as seclusion, over-medication and restraint.
Soteria London
Soteria London CIC was established in 2023. Its mission is to build a well-informed, compassionate community of people with lived experience of altered states, their family, friends and allies. We are exploring new ways to bring people together in safe, inclusive spaces to share knowledge, build connections and simply have some fun. Our current activities include community meals, 'Soteria in the Pub' open mic events and creative sessions. We are welcoming of new members who share our values and are keen to explore new ways of navigating mental health challenges. Our organisation is led by a board of directors with a broad spectrum of lived experience. We are always keen to hear from those who'd like to support our work, either by volunteering or through joining our board.