The Benjamin Foundation was founded in 1994 and exists to help people in Norfolk deal with many of the challenges that life throws at them; whether ‘everyday’ issues such as childcare or heartbreaking problems like abuse and homelessness.

Working with a number of key partners, we provide a range of practical services and support which all aim to empower people and give them back a sense of hope and control.

The Benjamin Foundation’s history goes back to 1994 when, following a family tragedy, the Charity was set up by Richard Draper MBE in memory of his son Benjamin. From humble beginnings which started with family outreach services in North Norfolk, our work has grown to meet the needs of families and young people right across the county. Today, we run four supported and ‘move on’ accommodation centres for homeless young people, provide crisis intervention through our resettlement programme, have a team of Parent Support Advisers working with families, supply one-to-one support in schools through our Time for You service, provide youth cafes and drop in centres, a nursery, crèche and after-school clubs, a holiday club and Youth bus - not to mention our two social enterprise schemes!

Whatever the particular area of work, our service-users are at the heart of everything we do. Our philosophy means treating people as individuals, being accessible, understanding and non-judgemental. As well as practical solutions and services, our teams offer support, empathy and someone to lean on for people who, for one reason or another, are facing problems in their life.

The Benjamin Foundation’s aim is to respond however and wherever we’re needed so our projects and services are expanding all the time. We have many exciting plans for the future - including more ‘move on’ flats, a revolutionary new youth centre and an innovative programme of Positive Activity for Young People.