Urgent Fundraising Appeal to Meet Fire Regulations

Most of CAN’s work takes place in a building that was built in 1935. A recent safety review by the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service has resulted in some required upgrades to ensure adherence to current safety regulations.

Included in these requirements is an order to widen the fire exit and replace the wheelchair ramp. We have approached a local building contractor who has estimated a cost of just under £20,000 to complete the work according to the appropriate regulatory codes.

This building is used for most of the services that CAN provides, resulting in weekly usage by approximately 230 people. The primary demographic groups represented by these users are people from low-income households, children and young people, and older people. In order to continue our work, serving the most vulnerable in our community, it is vital that these safety upgrades are carried out as soon as possible. We face the possibility of drastically reducing and/or temporally suspending many of our services if we cannot meet current safety regulations in a timely manner. We are therefore humbly requesting contributions towards £20,000 that would be used to fund the necessary building works. Donate via Just Giving or gofundme.

With your support, CAN will be able to remain a stable and trusted presence at the heart of Lakenham, helping those who might otherwise be left behind.

Thank you.

Community Action Norwich (CAN) is a small, grassroots Christian charity based in Lakenham, Norwich, dedicated to bringing hope, friendship, and practical support to local residents of all ages. Established in 1999, we work at the heart of one of the most deprived areas in Norwich and Norfolk, as identified by the Indices of Multiple Deprivation 2025.

Our mission is to offer a welcoming community where people can connect, access support, and build resilience across generations. This is achieved through the Lakenham Day Centre for the elderly, the Hope Community Café, the Youth and Children's Groups and our Community Outreach and Pastoral Support.

CAN’s impact is made possible by a small staff team and 40 dedicated volunteers, many giving their time to more than one project. We adapt our services to meet local needs, ensuring our charges remain affordable without compromising quality. Our strength lies in our personal, relationship-based approach: knowing our community by name, providing consistent, dignified support, and creating spaces where people feel valued and connected.

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