3 years after becoming a companion at Emmaus North East, Aaron has been offered full time employment within the charity as a Companion and Volunteer Development Worker. Aaron is a brilliant example of how someone can turn their life around with Emmaus and break the cycle of homelessness.

Aaron said; “I start my employment with Emmaus on 8th March 2021 which is exactly 3 years to the day since I joined Emmaus. Helping other companions will be a big part of my role, especially when they first move in. I’ll also be helping them do things in the shop. I’ve been in their shoes and I’ve got the experience. I have always said I’d love to have a job at Emmaus because it has helped me with my confidence so much. My CV is a lot better now and I want to give back to the charity.”

In a couple of months’ time I’d like to be living independently. I don’t want to live and work at Emmaus. I think if I lived here I would still see myself as a companion. But I want to now be a member of staff. If people see the progression that a companion can actually make, it could motivate them to come and try the community.”

Read Aaron’s full story here.