A new help hub has opened in Dereham.

The Link, situated within Breckland Business Centre, aims to provide a one-stop-shop of support and early intervention for those in need.

The hub is a joint initiative by Breckland Council and mental health charity, Norfolk and Waveney Mind.

It brings together services from various organisations, ensuring people only need to tell their story once to access the help they require.

Users of The Link can access assistance from Breckland Council's community and housing officers, as well as mental health support from Norfolk and Waveney Mind.

The hub is also supported by partners including Citizens Advice, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Boost skills programme, Nova Training, and NHS Talking Therapies.

Lady Dannatt unveils a commemorative plaque to mark the opening of The Link, alongside Maxine O'Mahony The Lady Dannatt unveils a commemorative plaque to mark the opening of The Link, alongside Maxine O'Mahony (Image: Supplied)

More partners may be added as The Link evolves.

At the launch event, councillor Sam Chapman-Allen, leader of Breckland Council, said: “I’m so pleased that we are able to help local people, particularly some of our most vulnerable residents, when they need it most.

"The Link absolutely demonstrates our collaborative approach, which is at the heart of everything we’re doing.”

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Nick Francis, chair of Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s trustees, said: “This is the first time we’ve worked in this way, so it is a very exciting project.

"The Link is a very different project because of the linkages we’ve formed with the other organisations based here and that will be a really good way of supporting local people.”

The Link was officially opened by The Lady Dannatt, Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk.

She said: “It is a huge honour and privilege to open The Link.

"Nobody should live without hope and it is my aspiration that this project will lead to a much more joined-up service for all the residents in this local community.”

Initially, The Link will be accessible by referral from the involved partners.