From an illegal business to a community asset, a vape shop has been reborn as a safe haven for SEN (special educational needs) children.
The premise on Exchange Street in Attleborough used to be a vape shop, called Sun Market.
It was closed by Attleborough town council in May 2024 after Norfolk Police had seized thousands of illegal products, and they were found to sell vapes to underage children.
On Attleborough’s Facebook Community board, residents have stated they feel the owners “should face prison sentences”.
A local controversy has been transformed into an inspiring association with the help of workers, Ellen Barret-Tooze and Sally Ann-hook.
On June 2nd 2025, the town council launched the youth centre. The rent of the premises has been funded for 3 years, supported by the Benjamin Hook Foundation.
They provide sessions three times a week, providing youth groups, activities for the children and taking them out on trips.
Ellen and Sally are youth workers who have big plans for the future of the centre and are passionate about raising awareness.
Youth group lead, Ellen, has said the transformation has benefited the children by increasing independence and stated, “It has given them freedom to be with other siblings”.
Sally, a former foster carer, has suggested improvements for expanding it and having an outdoor area.
Both workers expressed that they need increased funding. Ellen says it’s necessary to “build the name and grow in numbers” as the funding has only been arranged for three years.
ARCH has received a total of 40.5k from Breckland Market towns initiative and 36k from the Attleborough Town Council.
