About us

Now based in a complex of one-time school buildings in Tar Works Road, the centre was launched in 1981 and has built up vast experience of working with people with physical and/or sensory disabilities from around Great Yarmouth.

Centre 81 also has a fine reputation for encouraging and helping its members to develop their abilities, enjoy themselves, and become more independent.

Once a member's true aspirations are established, everything is focused on helping them achieve their goals. Every member has a personal achievement and development plan to chart that progress.

With a few exceptions, the professionally staffed centre is open 10am-4.30pm Monday-Friday and offers a remarkable range of activities, outings, games and sports. Meals and a drinks and snacks bar are available every day.

Our staff put people first in everything they do and each member is treated with respect and dignity and encouraged to make his or her own decisions. Members are among the trustees who oversee the operation of the centre.

We are a charity and rely heavily on funding from those who commission our services.

We also depend on willing and able volunteers who give tremendous support to our members and share their aspirations. They too need to get the most enjoyment and fulfillment from their work. Volunteers can be involved in anything from direct person-to-person help with members to gardening, washing up or driving!

Drivers are vital for our Door-To Door service which offers people with physical and/or sensory disabilities easy access to our own buses for shopping, meeting friends, outings, appointments or to get to Centre 81.

Everything we do is to benefit our members and we know there are lots of people who appreciate our work and would like to help in a tangible way.

We need sponsorship for all aspects of our work, from very large to small one-off projects, and we much appreciate all contributions.