One of Norfolk's leading disability empowerment charities has opened a new flagship store in Norwich.
The new Nansa charity shop on Magdalen Street will also focus on upcycling, second-hand arts and craft supplies, jewellery and craft workshops.
The shop also hosts the charity's Train and Trade service, a careers support service offering a range of trainee-ships that helps break down barriers that people with disabilities face when seeking employment or education.
Nansa chief executive Ros Czarnowska said the charity has had a retail presence across Norwich for several years, but the launch of the new store would give it the opportunity to showcase what it can offer.
She said: 'People are getting something a bit different from our new store with a fabulous range of both modern and retro stock, together with our usual great customer service, access to creative crafts and a chance to see how we are empowering people with disabilities.'
The new store was officially opened earlier this month by Kerry Staff, this year's winner of the Nansa Honor Boreham Award, given to the service user who has made the most effort/biggest strides in improvement within themselves.
As part of the day, staff also offered a free personal shopper experience and children were invited to paint and create their very own Norfolk Rocks, the new Facebook craze.
Mrs Czarnowska said: 'We are already looking at new and innovative ways to ensure that our Magdalen Street store is as inclusive a shopping experience as possible.
'The great support we've received from local businesses – both financial and volunteering – has been very heartwarming, especially the volunteer team from RBS and Natwest.'
To help prepare the new store, Nansa received volunteer support from Adam Hagan, Natwest and RBS mortgage direct quality and development manager.
A team of approximately 20 Natwest and RBS volunteers spent several days helping paint, decorate and promote the new store in the run-up to the official opening.
Mr Hagan nominated Nansa for volunteer support after his family used the charity's sleep service last year to support his son Reuben who was born with Down's Syndrome.
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