We’re thrilled to share the news that this Autumn we are embarking on an exciting new project to restore and re-open the grade II listed refectory on our site.
We have recently received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, enabling us to renovate the refectory back to its former glory and open it as a new social enterprise for our charity. The refectory dates back to 1887 and is where the Sisters of All Hallows Community would dine.
To launch the project we are holding a Heritage Exhibition on the 16th and 17th of September, uncovering the life and work of the Anglican Nuns who lived at All Hallows Convent from 1858 to 2018.
The refectory is becoming increasingly dilapidated and work is urgently needed on the large arch window and the foundations of the building. The room will re-open in 2024 as a dining room and will service the public, Emmaus companions and guests staying at the unique 32-bedroom B&B that the charity is also developing on-site.
The refectory project will support our companions to develop skills in hospitality, gain confidence in customer service and prepare them to re-enter work. The refectory and the B&B renovations, follow a large consultation with companions, asking the question ‘how can we do better?’. From this consultation, it became apparent companions wanted more training and development in the hospitality sector.
The new enterprise will provide companions the opportunity to gain new skills in customer service, front-of-house and hospitality industries and build self-esteem and confidence. The dining room will also raise vital funds to assist the charity in supporting more people who have experienced homelessness and trauma to rebuild their lives.
Cecile Roberts, CEO of Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney says “We’re incredibly honoured to work with the sisters of All Hallows to explore the heritage of the site, specifically the refectory, and we can’t wait to showcase this to the public. The refectory is going to be a beautiful space, where companions, visitors, and guests all come together to share meals and appreciate the heritage of the site that we call home. The new enterprise will create amazing opportunities for companions to grow and learn new skills and we can’t wait to welcome to public back to eat with us.”
The dining room will serve locally grown and sourced produce, including apples grown from our own orchard and served on reclaimed and upcycled tableware as part of a cosy, communal rustic dining experience. With a new Head Chef in place, companions will develop their catering skills further, learning to cook more frugal yet beautifully curated meals, working in a busy kitchen serving breakfast, lunch and eventually dinner, to those staying in the B&B.
We are holding events throughout the year to celebrate and share the amazing heritage of our site, find more information here