Dr Eamonn O’Neal DL, High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, has visited Emmaus Mossley to meet our team and tour our residential community.
On Thursday 4 July, Emmaus Mossley staff, trustees and companions – people supported by our charity – welcomed the High Sheriff to our community and Secondhand Superstore. The High Sheriff toured our building, learning about the support on offer to people who experience homelessness and how our charity has become a hub for the wider community.
Commenting on the visit, Dr O’Neal said: “As High Sheriff, it’s a real privilege to travel around Greater Manchester to see just how much great work is being done within all the communities. This is my first visit to Emmaus Mossley and I am absolutely blown away with the scale of the organisation and the way the companions are integrated into the whole of the operation.”
“One of the most important things I have seen today, as well as the wonderful social interactions and the stuff you can buy, is the way the companions are empowered to make decisions and be part of the fabric and running of the organisation. Congratulations to everyone – it’s been an amazing visit.”
Emmaus Mossley supports people who have experienced homelessness by providing them with a home, companionship, tailored support and work opportunities. While at Emmaus, people are given the opportunity for a fresh start, gaining skills and work experience alongside training and personal development.
The Office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular title in British history and among the most ancient in the world, dating back more than 1,300 years. Dr O’Neal was chosen by King Charles as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester and installed in April. This is the second time he has served as High Sheriff, having previously held the 12-month ceremonial position in 2020.
Community tour
Darren, an Emmaus companion who welcomed the High Sheriff and provided him with a tour, said: “It was great to welcome Dr O’Neal, and he was very impressed with our community as a whole. He was keen to understand how Emmaus Mossley operates and see the facilities on offer to companions.”
“The High Sheriff seemed really impressed with our Secondhand Superstore, especially our new Sound & Vision area. I hope his first visit to our community won’t be his last and he’s welcome back anytime.”
The Emmaus Mossley Secondhand Superstore is filled with a wide range of furniture, homewares, bric-a-brac, clothes, vintage goods and upcycled items. All proceeds raised within the Secondhand Superstore go to support our charity and the people who live here.
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