06/11/2025: Dereham 'help hub' is now more accessible than ever

It is now easier than ever before for people in and around Dereham to access the support they need from a 'help hub' in the heart of the town. 

The Link, at the Breckland Business Centre, brings a wide range of services under one roof, offering joined-up support across mental health, housing, employment and training, finance, and community services. 

Since opening in late 2024, more than 1,400 people have already been supported by the organisations in The Link. 

Now, to help even more people access the support they need, The Link will accept self-referrals from individuals seeking assistance. By completing the simple contact form, people will be able to seek support from one or more of The Link's partner agencies, which includes Breckland Council, Norfolk and Waveney Mind, Department for Work and Pensions, Norfolk Citizens Advice, NHS Talking Therapies, the BOOST skills programme, and Nova Training. 

This partnership approach means people only need to share their story once, before being connected to timely and coordinated support across multiple areas of need. 

Councillor Tristan Ashby, Executive Member for Health and Communities, said: "The Link has already been providing preventative care across Breckland, with over 1,400 people supported in its first ten months. The form makes it even easier for people to get the help they need. Thanks to The Link's unique 'hub' model, residents don't have to tell their story over and over again, with so many services working together in one place, we can make sure their information reaches the right people quickly." 

Sonja Chilvers, Chief Executive Officer at Norfolk and Waveney Mind, added: "The Link in Dereham is a shining example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared purpose. By bringing learning, livelihoods, and local support under one roof, the hub is tackling the root causes of poor mental health and helping people to build stronger futures. We're proud to play our part in this model, which we hope will inspire the development of similar community hubs across the region." 

Mark Hitchcock, Chief Executive at Norfolk Citizens Advice, said: "Norfolk Citizens Advice is delighted to be work with partners to provide comprehensive support to local people and look forward to helping many more people to find a way forward." 

To find out more about The Link and self-refer today,visit The Link webpage.