A new report by Emmaus UK reveals that one new person every hour is turning to Emmaus for help. The newly-published Annual Review highlights the scale of the work carried out by Emmaus communities and groups.
‘Driving Action and Impact’ showcases the ways in which Emmaus in the UK is transforming the lives of people who have experienced homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion. Featuring milestones from across the financial year alongside key data and supporter stories, the report demonstrates achievements and impact throughout the Emmaus federation.
In her introduction to the Annual Review, Charlotte Talbott, CEO of Emmaus UK, says:
“The testimonials and data covered within these pages highlight the incredible impact of our collective efforts to end homelessness throughout the UK. At a time of increased challenge, we continue to drive action and impact for people with experience of homelessness, to make a very real and long-lasting difference.”
Key highlights
Emmaus supported 7,161 people during the year, including companions who have experience of homelessness and others supported through solidarity activities. That’s the equivalent of one new person every sixty minutes.
A total of 5,017 tonnes of goods in total were saved from landfill across the Emmaus federation through repurposing or recycling.
Communities and groups gave £397,000 in donated funds, goods and volunteering time in solidarity efforts, supporting other organisations and projects to make a difference to others in need.
Our stories
The Annual Review also features real life stories of people and communities across Emmaus, showcasing some of the people who are rebuilding their lives at Emmaus communities around the UK.
Lloyd, a companion at Emmaus Sheffield, shared his story of homelessness, and how he has turned his life around. He says:
“I love the structure of work and with help from Emmaus Sheffield, I have a chance to be the best version of myself and have a normal life.”
Closing the report, Emmaus UK’s president, Sir Terry Waite, praises the achievements made throughout the year, particularly those made by companions. Sir Terry Waite has previously described how his experience as a hostage gave him great empathy for people experiencing homelessness. Drawing on this experience of isolation, he says:
“I know from my own experience of isolation in captivity how difficult it is to combat the negative impact of such a dehumanising experience. People who have been homeless often suffer from social isolation and it can take a long time for someone to rebuild their life again. In the past year many companions have done just that and I would like to congratulate them on their achievements.”
Read the Emmaus Annual Review 2022 – 23 here: ‘Driving Action and Impact.’