New figures released by Emmaus UK show how Emmaus communities and groups are stepping up to help even more people affected by homelessness.
Data published today in an Emmaus UK Annual Report reveal the number of formerly homeless people helped by Emmaus with a home, work opportunities and tailored support has risen 29%.
Emmaus efforts to support other causes in wider communities, to address the root causes of homelessness and poverty, has risen substantially. Hours volunteered are up 70% from the previous financial year.
Read the report here
Charlotte Talbott, Chief Executive of Emmaus UK, said:
“The figures included in our annual review show positive impact across the UK. In the space of just one year, the number of formerly homeless people supported by Emmaus has risen close to 30%.
I am incredibly proud of the Emmaus teams who work across the UK to help individuals reach their potential, thanks to the generosity of supporters who make what we do possible.
Much more needs to be done to address the homelessness crisis, but I look forward with optimism to what we can achieve together for change.”
Community in action
Doing good for others through acts of solidarity is a key principle of Emmaus.
Driven by a focus on solidarity for the 70th anniversary of the movement in 2024, the number of hours volunteered across the UK federation totalled 18,203 hours, up 70% on the previous financial year. This would be worth £208,242 if paid at the National Living Wage.
Each of the 30+ Emmaus communities and groups UK-wide were involved in solidarity activities. Efforts included donations of food to a local charity and a school by Emmaus Merseyside, Emmaus Mossley volunteering to improve local green spaces, and donations of furniture for Romania by Emmaus Cambridge.
In a message for the annual review, former hostage Sir Terry Waite, who was made President of Emmaus UK shortly after his release from captivity in 1991, said:
“What may seem a small act of kindness can have a tremendous, wide-ranging impact way beyond anything which can be imagined.”
“Since being made President of Emmaus,” Sir Terry continued, “I have been privileged to see first-hand how Emmaus volunteers, companions and staff work tirelessly throughout the year to transform lives and make a difference for their wider areas, day in day out.”
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Read the Emmaus Annual Review 2023 – 24 here: Together for Change