A charity that works to help young people and families in Norfolk has seen demand rise during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ormiston Families, which delivers services in areas like Great Yarmouth and Norwich, said it had carried out more than 10,000 support sessions across the county over the last 12 months.

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The charity, which has launched its 40th anniversary campaign, saw 50pc more referrals to its mental health service in October and March as young people returned to schools.

Chief executive Allan Myatt said Breaking Barriers, supporting families affected by imprisonment or offending, has also seen increased demand with Covid causing prison visits to be paused for several months.

Norwich Evening News: Ormiston Families chief executive Allan Myatt.Ormiston Families chief executive Allan Myatt. (Image: Ormiston Families)

He said: “There is no doubt that this has been an incredibly challenging last 12 months for so many families across the region, and Norfolk children, young women and families have felt the impact hard.”

The charity’s year-long anniversary campaign, with the theme of #AllDoorsOpen, will include events and former service users sharing their experiences.

Norwich Evening News: Ormiston Families' vision for every child is that they are loved, nurtured and valued.Ormiston Families' vision for every child is that they are loved, nurtured and valued. (Image: zest photography)