Shining a Light on Norfolk’s ‘Hidden’ Needs
At Norfolk Community Foundation, we have spent two decades at the heart of tackling some of the county’s most pressing but often overlooked social challenges.
Through dedicated funding and support, we empower grassroots charities to make a lasting impact, ensuring that no one in our communities is left behind. On 12th March, we are bringing together local charities at Illuminate Norfolk—a special event at Norfolk Showground designed to highlight the invisible struggles faced by so many and the incredible charitable responses that are changing lives.
Norfolk has many young carers, but their lives, the family situation and the lasting impact on these young people, is a matter that is frequently flies under the radar – but some are taking action to highlight and respond.
Terry Macrowan from Great Yarmouth and Gorleston Young Carers highlights the quiet burden shouldered by young carers:
“Many children in Norfolk are juggling school with demanding family responsibilities. They know their lives are different from their friends, but it is their life, so they keep their heads down. It’s often only when they reach breaking point that help is offered – but we’re working with schools and families to spot the signs earlier, so they don’t reach crisis.”
The charity provides respite and one-to-one support, but as visibility of the issue gradually grows, they worry about the demand on their services.
The pandemic has also had a profound impact on families and young people, making other underlying issues rise to the surface.
Natalie Spurdens from Home-Start Norfolk describes the impact:
“Many parents lost confidence during COVID, and children missed key developmental milestones. Isolation, mental health struggles, and long NHS waiting lists mean families need early intervention now more than ever.”
Home-Start Norfolk works directly with parents in their homes to strengthen families and provide vital support.
Similarly, the confidence of young people who struggle in a conventional educational setting has also been knocked in recent years.
Martin Slater from Open Road West Norfolk has seen the effects first hand:
“Young people, particularly those with special educational needs, are increasingly anxious and withdrawn. Social media pressures and a lack of confidence leave many feeling lost. At Open Road, we aim to help these lost young people find the confidence they need to succeed.” Open Road’s hands-on learning programmes in motor vehicle maintenance and construction offer a safe space where students rebuild their confidence and independence.
Guided by insights from the hundreds of community organisations we support, Norfolk Community Foundation is committed to tackling six key areas of need across the county. From supporting young people and ensuring food reaches those in crisis to strengthening community resilience and protecting local environments, we are dedicated to creating a stronger Norfolk for everyone.
Since our founding, we have helped channel over £50 million into community-led solutions. Illuminate Norfolk will not only celebrate this milestone but also showcase the innovative ways local charities are addressing hidden needs.
But this event is more than a celebration—it is a call to action. Illuminate Norfolk is an opportunity to recognise the power of community, share ideas, and commit to working together to ensure that no one in our county faces hardship alone.
Join us on 12th March to be part of the movement for change. Together, we can shine a light on Norfolk’s hidden challenges and build a brighter future for all.
Illuminate is kindly sponsored by local businesses. Find out more here.
