Emmaus Bolton worked together with six other Emmaus communities across the region to create the emotive film, ‘An Introduction to Emmaus North West’. The film features people supported by Emmaus alongside volunteers and staff, speaking about their experiences in communities and social enterprises.
Emmaus is now appealing for public votes to help the film make the final shortlist for The Smiley Charity Film Awards, the world’s biggest campaign to promote cause-based films.
People supported by the charity took part in the film at the Fletcher Street community in Bolton alongside volunteers in addition to Phil Urmston, Projects Manager, and Tony Stephenson, the charity’s Chief Executive Officer.
Courageous stories
Tony said: “Our special thanks go to the people supported by Emmaus, who have been incredibly courageous in sharing their personal journeys in this film. We are also grateful to the volunteers and the other people who took part from Emmaus communities and groups.
“We hope this evocative and beautifully produced film reaches new audiences and supporters. We would also like to thank the film producers for making this possible.
“We would like to encourage everyone to watch the full length film and vote for it in the Charity Film Awards. Your support in voting for and sharing this will help to raise awareness of Emmaus and the fantastic work of our communities and groups.”
George Almond, Trustee at Emmaus Bolton, helped with the development of the film. George said: “The film was commissioned by the partnership of six Emmaus communities and an Emmaus group within the North West. Emmaus communities provide a home, training, work opportunities and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness.”
Watch the new film
Award-winning photographic duo Photography by Anderson assisted to produce the film, having previously worked with Emmaus Salford to create a short film in 2021. The film has been entered in the Charity Film Awards where Emmaus supporters and the public can vote to help it reach the final shortlist. Round 1 voting closes on Friday 12 January 2024.
To see the full-length film and vote for it in the Charity Film Awards visit: https://smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/an-introduction-to-emmaus-north-west