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Emmaus communities provide a home and meaningful work for people who have experienced homelessness, helping them to find a way to move on with their lives.

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From house clearances to getting involved with the wider community, we offer a wide range of services.

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There are many ways you can support us, from volunteering to donating goods. Your support means that we get to carry on doing what we do best - helping those who need it most.

At Emmaus North East, our dedicated team works tirelessly to support our companions and drive our social enterprises forward.

Every person plays a vital role in our mission to provide a safe, supportive community where everyone has the chance to rebuild their lives. From managing retail spaces and workshops to offering compassionate, hands-on support, our team members bring their unique skills and passion to everything they do. They are the heart of our charity, committed to making a positive difference every single day.

Scroll down to meet the fantastic people who help make Emmaus North East what it is today! Click here to see our organisation chat.

Meet the team

Ruth Parker - Chief Executive

Ruth Parker - Chief Executive

Ruth joined Emmaus North East in July 2022, bringing a wealth of leadership experience from her previous role as Chief Executive of Victims First Northumbria. Before that, she dedicated 23 years to Her Majesty’s Court Service. At Emmaus North East, Ruth works closely with the Board of Trustees to shape the charity’s strategy, make key financial decisions, and lead the team in providing the highest quality of support to companions. Outside of work, Ruth loves cheering on her two sons from the football sidelines, taking relaxing walks with her dog Remy, and spending quality time with her closest friends.
Sue Shaw – Community Manager

Sue Shaw – Community Manager

Sue joined Emmaus North East in 2023, transitioning from a long career in business administration and management. Inspired by life-changing events in 2020, she embraced a new path focused on supporting companions and ensuring the smooth running of the community. In her personal life, Sue enjoys spending time with her family, taking her beloved Labrador for walks, listening to music, and painting abstract art.
Mark Simanis – Area Retail Manager

Mark Simanis – Area Retail Manager

Mark brought over 30 years of experience from the retail industry when he joined Emmaus North East more than 18 months ago. His role focuses on developing and expanding social enterprises throughout the North East, while supporting the charity’s community work. Outside of work, Mark enjoys spending time with his sons, sharing their passion for motorsport, as well as reading, gaming, and enjoying family time.
Carol Hallett – Services Manager

Carol Hallett – Services Manager

Carol’s journey with Emmaus North East began 18 months ago, and she describes it as an amazing experience. She has taken on various roles, from Community Activator Project Manager to Engagement and Development Manager, and is now excited to start her new role as Services Manager for the Durham SHAP project. Outside of work, Carol enjoys walking, going to the gym, spending time with her loved ones, and watching her children excel in their sports.
Noel Lewthwaite – Workshop Manager

Noel Lewthwaite – Workshop Manager

Noel has been with Emmaus North East for six and a half years, running the workshop where he upcycles donated furniture and teaches those skills to companions and volunteers. An avid photographer, Noel even took the pictures featured on this very page. His creative eye and passion for teaching are at the heart of his role.
Sandy Lambrou – Finance Manager

Sandy Lambrou – Finance Manager

With over 12 years of service at Emmaus North East, Sandy is an integral part of the team, managing the charity’s finances with expertise and dedication. When not at work, Sandy enjoys visiting the theatre and staying active by playing tennis.
Kim Scott – Area Retail Supervisor

Kim Scott – Area Retail Supervisor

Kim joined Emmaus North East 11 months ago and loves being part of the team. As part of the Retail Team, she helps oversee and manage social enterprises, driving sales, enhancing standards, and growing Gift Aid contributions while working closely with companions and volunteers. In her spare time, Kim runs a local children’s community gardening group and enjoys crafting and going for walks with her family.
Mel Irklis - Retail Supervisor

Mel Irklis - Retail Supervisor

Mel joined Emmaus North East in October 2023 as a volunteer and loved it so much that she embraced a paid role as Retail Supervisor at Lucie’s Legacy in January 2024. Her responsibilities include keeping the shop well-presented, supporting companions and volunteers, and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. Outside of work, Mel enjoys spending quality time with her children, going on fun days out, and catching up with friends and family.
Erin Walsh – Community Support Worker

Erin Walsh – Community Support Worker

Erin has been part of Emmaus North East for over two and a half years, dedicating her time to supporting companions by helping them with essential tasks like registering with doctors and lending a compassionate ear when they feel low. In her free time, Erin enjoys cooking, exploring new cuisines, and hopes to travel more in the future.
Ross Bunker - Van Driver

Ross Bunker - Van Driver

Awaiting biog
Chris Yare - Cook

Chris Yare - Cook

Chris has been the Community Cook at Emmaus North East for six months, bringing his experience as a former head chef at a local bar to the role. His daily responsibilities include preparing nutritious meals for companions, planning menus, ordering ingredients, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, and ensuring all relevant records are up to date. Outside of work, Chris enjoys reading and is a dedicated Sunderland fan. He also proudly serves as the "Bank of Dad" for his daughter, who is in the final months of her studies at Manchester University!
Dawn Spraggon - Area Retail Supervisor

Dawn Spraggon - Area Retail Supervisor

Dawn joined Emmaus North East just over four weeks ago after spending nearly 17 years as a team leader in a large retail company. Now serving as an Area Retail Supervisor, her role involves working across the three Emmaus shops alongside companions, volunteers, and fellow staff members. A typical day includes setting up the team for daily tasks, accepting and sorting donations, organising stock in the back areas, and replenishing the sales floor with new items. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and dining out. She finds joy in making people smile.