The Benjamin Foundation Monthly Update

The Benjamin Foundation

The Benjamin Foundation is a local charity which helps people across Norfolk and Suffolk to deal with some of the challenges that life throws at them.

Whether it’s the prevention of youth homelessness, helping families to build stronger relationships or providing positive activities for young people with limited opportunities, our work brings hope, opportunity, stability and independence to the people we support.

Preventing Youth Homelessness

Last year in the UK, 103,000 [source: End Youth Homelessness] young people approached their local authority for help after becoming homeless or finding themselves in unstable or unsafe accommodation.

We want to end youth homelessness and we are tackling the problem locally by providing a home and support to over 100 vulnerable young people every night. We give young people a safe home and help them to build their confidence and self-esteem. We support them to learn life skills such as cooking, cleaning and budgeting, as well as offering guidance with their education and career so they can leave us and go on to lead successful, independent lives.

This work keeps vulnerable young people off the streets and helps to prevent the local homelessness problem growing.

When twin sisters, Carrie* and Alice* found themselves needing somewhere to live during the pandemic, we were there to help.

Carrie says: “We felt like people were never there to help us before, but everyone has been so nice. Even little things, like being given a toaster, mean so much.”

“It feels like there’s hope for us now. It’s like we are meant to be here and we are so grateful and really appreciate all the help we have had.”

Can you help us to help young people like Carrie and Alice? Make a donation here: https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/donate/

*Names have been changed.

Affordable Co-Living Opportunity

We get that starting out can feel overwhelming – juggling a job and finding somewhere to live when money is tight.

We’re here to help! From August 2020, we have comfortable and affordable co-living in North Walsham for young people aged 18-25.

Michala Howarth, Home Starter Development Worker for The Benjamin Foundation, says: “The homes are an ideal next step for young people looking to grow in independence. With rent which is affordable, it will give you the opportunity to grow in confidence and life skills as you negotiate your way into the world of work, training or education.”

If you’re aged 18-25 and in training, education or employment and would like to enquire about living in one of the homes, contact Michala on 07976 851202.

Support Our Stores

We have stores selling good quality used furniture and electrical goods - with brand new white goods and beds too - in Norwich, Dereham and Holt.

By supporting our stores, you’re helping us to help more local children, young people and families who are going through difficult times.

Visit our website to find your local store or get in touch to enquire about donating furniture: https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/stores/

Thank you for supporting The Benjamin Foundation.