Norfolk and Waveney Mind said it was “saddened” to learn that the Access Community Trust had ceased operating at midnight on Wednesday, bringing an immediate end to services such as the Steam House cafes in Gorleston and King’s Lynn.

The charity provided supported housing and community-based services for vulnerable people.

Its cafes were widely used as drop‑in spaces for people seeking mental health support, and their loss has left a gap in provision across the area.

The Olive Centre in Lowestoft. (Image: Access Community Trust)

In a statement, Norfolk and Waveney Mind said its thoughts were with those affected by the shutdown and stressed that alternative help remains available.

“As Norfolk and Waveney’s leading mental health charity, we want to reassure our community that we are here to offer support where we can,” a spokesperson said.

Mind runs a range of services across the region, including mental health hubs, recovery workers based in GP surgeries, and a daily telephone triage service open from 9.30am to 10pm.

The charity also plans to set up pop‑up mental health drop‑ins in Great Yarmouth, Gorleston and Waveney, with details to be announced once staffing is confirmed.

Those seeking immediate help can contact the Norfolk and Waveney Mind triage line on 0300 330 5488 or visit www.norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk.

Additional support is available through NHS 111 (option 2) or by calling Samaritans on 116 123.

The closure of the Lowestoft-based Access Community Trust follows years of involvement in mental health and community work across Norfolk and Suffolk, and its absence has already prompted concern among those who relied on its services.

The trust was formed in 1975 when it started out as a homeless night shelter in Lowestoft.

It supported thousands of people over the years through a range of community hubs and dedicated initiatives.

Nearly 100 staff lost their jobs on pay day on Wednesday.

© Eastern Daily Press