By Geoff Fisher 
The Bircham Centre Charity held its annual general meeting in late April, which provided the trustees with an opportunity to look back on the past 12 months and outline priorities for the year ahead.
Over the past year the centre has expanded its community involvement, helped in part by funding from the Norfolk Community Foundation, which has enabled the community engagement worker role to continue for a further two years.
This support has allowed more residents to take part in activities such as the weekly Crafternoons and the after‑school board games group, as well as access regular advice sessions from organisations including Age UK Norfolk.
Maintaining the historic building remains a significant financial challenge. Recent work has included repairing or replacing several windows and installing new signage (pictured) to help visitors navigate the building. In the coming year, the trustees plan to continue this programme of improvements, with a particular focus on making the garden more accessible.
Volunteers continue to play a vital role in the running of the Bircham Centre. The past year has seen the recruitment of new trustees and volunteers, along with the appointment of a new chair of trustees, Tina Pashley. More help is always welcome.
“We will continue to try to recruit more trustees, associate trustees and volunteers throughout the year ahead and would love to talk to anyone who would be interested in joining our merry band,” said Ms Pashley.
Although finances have been tight, grant support has enabled the charity to achieve most of its objectives. Trustees also announced a new award from the Norfolk Offshore Wind Farms Community Fund, delivered through the Norfolk Community Foundation. This funding, focused on nature and green spaces, will support a programme of outdoor activities for all ages.
All of this places the Bircham Centre in a strong position to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the coming year.
Summarising the charity’s purpose, Ms Pashley said the aim is “to gather the community together in a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
“We will continue to work hard to be the heart of our community,” she added, highlighting the wide range of activities on offer, from the charity shop and Monday coffee mornings to Fixery sessions, children’s clubs, bridge, support services and the much‑loved garden.
Photo: Bircham Centre