About Sussex Emmaus
Sussex Emmaus is a charity with a difference. We provide a safe home, meaningful work, and tailored support for up to 58 individuals who have experienced homelessness. Rather than offering just a bed for the night, we give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives with stability, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
At the heart of our community are our companions, the name we give to people who live with us. Companions contribute to our social enterprises, supporting themselves and one another as they develop skills, confidence, and independence.
Each companion is offered a personalised support package and development plan, helping them to:
- Build new skills or strengthen existing ones
- Improve confidence and self-esteem
- Enhance mental and physical wellbeing
- Increase employability and future opportunities
Based at Portslade, Brighton, we are part of the international Emmaus movement but operate as an independent community, rooted in the local area.
Our Social Enterprises
Most of our income comes from the work of our social enterprises, which include a charity shop, café, garden centre and vintage clothing and furniture shops. Companions are involved in every area, gaining valuable work experience while directly supporting the charity and its mission.
Governance and Trustees
Our Board of Trustees ensures strong governance for Sussex Emmaus. Together with our CEO and staff team, the trustees:
- Set and oversee strategic direction
- Review and approve policies and procedures
- Appoint senior staff
- Safeguard the charity’s objectives, purpose, and values
The Board meets six times a year, and trustees may also contribute to sub-committees or specific initiatives.
Become a Trustee
We are looking for committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help shape the future of Sussex Emmaus.
Skills and experience we’re looking for:
- HR and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
- Fundraising
- Marketing and social media
Ideally, applicants should be based near Portslade, enabling them to visit the community and build strong relationships with companions, staff, and volunteers.
Time commitment:
- Six evening meetings per year at the Portslade community
- Some ad-hoc committee work
- Occasional community visits
We provide induction training, ongoing support, and reimbursement for travel expenses.
What you’ll gain as a trustee:
- Full training and development opportunities
- Experience making strategic decisions
- Professional networking opportunities
- A chance to influence innovative projects
- The reward of improving lives and creating lasting impact
About Emmaus
Emmaus is a secular organisation supporting people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the UK, supporting more than 1,000 companions from Glasgow to Dover and beyond.
How to Apply
To express your interest in becoming a trustee at Sussex Emmaus, contact us at:
📧 [email protected]
✉️ Trustee Applicant, Sussex Emmaus, Drove Road, Portslade, Brighton, BN41 2PA.
Equal Opportunities
Sussex Emmaus is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, marital status, or parental responsibilities.