An organisation which has helped more than 25,000 families across half a century is expanding its service.

The Hamlet, a disability charity in the city, is celebrating its 50-year anniversary by setting up shop at a new venue and launching a fundraising campaign.

The charity, which supports more than 500 families each year since it began in 1973, already operates in two locations in Norwich - Johnson Place and Ella Road.

Norwich Evening News: The Hamlet charity has helped more than 25,000 families since its inceptionThe Hamlet charity has helped more than 25,000 families since its inception (Image: The Hamlet)

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Now it has "fulfilled a long-held ambition" to expand its adult services and acquired new premises in Marion Road, Thorpe Hamlet.

Chief executive of The Hamlet, Ellie Coulson, believes there's an ever-increasing demand for its services, saying: "Families need our support now more than ever.

Norwich Evening News: CEO of The Hamlet, Ellie CoulsonCEO of The Hamlet, Ellie Coulson (Image: The Hamlet)

"The uncertain financial climate and increasing pressure on public services means that we are a lifeline for many people who would otherwise not have access to the opportunities they deserve.

"At The Hamlet, we believe that people with disabilities and complex health needs deserve to be valued for who they are and be given the chance to explore choice, communicate and unlock their potential."

The Hamlet's new adult centre will be opened on Friday, October 6.

Norwich Evening News: The Hamlet is opening a new premises, in Marion Road, Thorpe Hamlet, to expand its adult servicesThe Hamlet is opening a new premises, in Marion Road, Thorpe Hamlet, to expand its adult services (Image: The Hamlet)

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With help from agency Creativity Unbound, The Hamlet is launching its "50 Years of Firsts" campaign.

Michelle Williams, founder of Creativity Unbound, added: "Whether it's the first time a child says your name or the first time they can put on their own socks, each achievement brings incredible joy to everyone involved.

"By sharing these stories we hope to raise awareness of The Hamlet and its role in our community, that with support, can continue to bring joy to the lives of our children and young people for the next 50 years."

Norwich Evening News: The Hamlet is celebrating its 50 year anniversary by expanding its service and launching a new fundraising campaignThe Hamlet is celebrating its 50 year anniversary by expanding its service and launching a new fundraising campaign (Image: The Hamlet)