The Emmaus model was first introduced to the UK in the early 1990s. A group of founding volunteers established Emmaus Cambridge to address homelessness in the city and the community was officially opened by Sir Terry Waite.
Since the first UK community opened in 1991, Emmaus has grown quickly across the country. There are now 29 communities spread across the UK, with a further three groups currently working to establish new communities. The UK is now the country with the most Emmaus communities outside of France.
Stretching from Glasgow to Dover, Emmaus communities in the UK are able to provide a home and support to 850 Emmaus companions. No two Emmaus communities are the same – each has its own individual personality, providing services that meet the needs of its local area. Each community has at least one shop or social enterprise, with many also running successful cafés, gardening projects and house clearance services.
Today, the Emmaus movement worldwide includes more than 420 Emmaus groups, located in over 40 countries. Across four continents – Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas – Emmaus groups work every day to help the most excluded and tackle the causes of poverty.
The first Emmaus community was founded by Father Henri-Antoine Grouès, better known as Abbé Pierre.
Emmaus UK has been made aware of an investigation into incidents of sexual assault and harassment committed by him.
As a federation of 32 independent Emmaus charities across the UK, we are deeply shocked and saddened by the information received.
The Emmaus federation in the UK and wider international movement deplores and condemns all acts of abuse, and we stand with all survivors.