We are delighted to share the news that homelessness campaigner, author and BBC Radio 2 quizmaster Jay Flynn MBE has been made Ambassador of Emmaus UK.
Jay brings lived experience of homelessness to his Ambassador role as well as a public platform to share news of our work, as a result of his virtual quizzes which rose to prominence during the Covid-19 lockdowns and raised more than £1million for charities with celebrity support, earning him an MBE.
Jay was evening host at the Emmaus National Assembly in October where he announced his commitment to supporting Emmaus as much as he could, and has told BBC Radio 2 listeners of his partnership with Emmaus this morning (Thursday 19th December 2024) in what is likely to be his last quiz on the Breakfast Show as presenter Zoe Ball is leaving.
Emmaus UK Chief Executive, Charlotte Talbott, and President Sir Terry Waite, are among those from the federation of more than 30 Emmaus communities and groups to welcome Jay Flynn to the Emmaus family.
Speaking of his pride in being made Ambassador of Emmaus UK, Jay said:
“Homelessness is utterly devastating for everyone concerned, especially for those directly affected, as I know from my own experience having lived on the streets.
“It can be challenging to get back on track after being homeless, so I’ve been impressed to hear from so many people who have turned their lives around with the help of Emmaus communities and groups, which offer a range of support and opportunities.
“That is why I am determined to help in any way I can in my role as Ambassador of Emmaus UK to make sure others facing similar situations know there is a place they can go for help anywhere in the UK.
“I feel very proud to join Emmaus UK’s President Sir Terry Waite, Chief Executive, Charlotte Talbott, and Emmaus teams and supporters in this important work.”
Jay plans to visit as many communities and groups as possible next year and looks forward to meeting companions, who are helped by Emmaus, staff and volunteers across the federation.
Charlotte Talbott, Chief Executive of Emmaus UK, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Jay Flynn MBE to the Emmaus family as Ambassador of Emmaus UK.
“Jay is a huge inspiration to so many within the federation, as someone with lived experience of homelessness who shares our commitment to raising awareness of the issues of poverty and social exclusion that are faced by too many people across the UK.
“Jay also shares our passion for what we offer as Emmaus communities and groups nationwide, as we provide a unique model of community, person-centred support and work opportunities to help people rebuild their lives after homelessness, and we look forward to working with Jay as our new Ambassador as we embark on plans that will see us do more to tackle homelessness across the UK.”