Shine - supporting children & young people with additional needs and their families

Shine is a registered charity run by an experienced team and supported by specialist staff and trustees.

For more than 35 years, Shine has supported families across Great Yarmouth & East Norfolk with specialist care, play and emotional support for children and young people with additional needs.

Founded by two parents in 1989, Shine has grown from a small support group into a trusted, purpose-built service offering nursery provision, short breaks, family support and inclusive activities. Today, our dedicated staff team and Trustees continue that original mission: to help every child shine in their own way.

We use The Thrive Approach to support healthy emotional and social development. Thrive helps us understand what a child’s behaviour might be communicating, so we can meet their needs with empathy, structure and connection.

Through 1–1 sessions, small groups and everyday interactions, we help children:

Our environment, routines and staff training all reflect Thrive's core belief: children learn best when they feel safe, understood and connected.

Our term-time nursery provides high-quality, inclusive childcare for children aged 2 to 4 years. With two large, well-equipped rooms and spacious outdoor areas, children explore, play and learn in a bright, stimulating environment.

At Shine Nursery, we focus on:

(Ages 8 - 17) 

Friday evenings, 6pm–8:30pm (term time)

A supportive, social space where children & young people build friendships, develop life skills and enjoy group activities.

(Ages 5 - 17)

Saturdays, 10am–3pm (term time)


An exploratory environment where children & young people  gain confidence &  try new experiences.

(Ages 5 - 17) 

Every school holiday except Christmas, 10am–3pm

Exciting, inclusive sessions designed to help children & young people experience new activities and enjoy play alongside their peers.

We’re currently fundraising to purchase resources for our new purpose built activity space that will allow us to support even more children and offer more individual Thrive sessions. Your donation helps create a brighter, happier future for local children with additional needs.