Charity expansion is child’s play

The Benjamin Foundation, a leading Norfolk charity, is gathering a host of new young fans as they expand their childcare services to the south of the county.


Ditchingham Day Nursery (located just outside Bungay) has transferred business ownership to the charity.

The Nursery was formerly owned by All Hallows Convent community and has operated for many years, establishing a respected reputation for full daycare provision. As the Convent community looked to ‘downsize’ some of their business interests, The Benjamin Foundation was selected following a rigorous process to take on ownership and the transfer of business became official from 1st November. The nursery caters for up to 40 children, ranging from 3months to 5years and operates throughout the year.

Teresa Turner, Play Work Manager with The Benjamin Foundation, says it’s been a hectic time getting the service operational within the charity but describes it as really exciting too: “Ditchingham is our first venture into the full daycare market and we believe the nursery’s existing ethos – focused on individual needs, support and growth – matches that of the Foundation very well. We’re delighted to welcome the staff team into The Benjamin Foundation ‘family’ and look forward to working with lots of new children and parents.”

Teresa continues: “We recognise how important it is for parents and carers to be able to access trusted, quality childcare at affordable rates and are really excited to be expanding our services in this area.”

The Benjamin Foundation currently runs Kidzone, offering wraparound care, at North Walsham Junior School and Hoveton St Johns, as well as ‘Town Tots’ pre-school nursery at North Walsham Junior School. Their other services for children, young people and families range from youth clubs and community cafes to the hugely successful ‘Time for You’ programme offering one-to-one support for children in school settings and Parent Support Advisers who work with families experiencing a wide range of challenges. The charity also runs a county-wide programme of positive activities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

About the Benjamin Foundation:
We are a registered charity working with children, young people, families and individuals across Norfolk, providing:
• housing solutions for young homeless people or those leaving care
• resettlement services for rough sleepers and those in crisis
• one-to-one services for children in schools who are experiencing personal problems
• positive activities for young people with limited opportunities
• support for parents and families in difficulty
• high quality childcare and kids clubs
• youth clubs, drop–in centres, counselling services, community cafes, re-sale shops,
special needs groups and rural outreach