I joined Emmaus Preston as a volunteer in 2015 after going there on a Learn Direct placement. I enjoyed it and got to know everyone. A few years later I joined as a companion.
My partner died in 2015 and after that I was struggling to look after myself. I wasn’t eating very well because my partner used to cook for me. He looked after the bills as well. After he died it was only me and my cats. The flat was damp and mouldy. I tried my best but on my own it was not a good place to live. People kept coming to my door causing me more upset.
Emmaus was my support
I couldn’t stay in my flat anymore so I moved to Emmaus Preston as a companion in 2018. Karen (Community Leader) helped me move and rehouse my cats. Emmaus helped me feel safe.
In the day, I did the cleaning and helped out in the kitchen. I helped to cook food for the community and made everyone sandwiches for lunch. I worked at the house and also at the shops. I learned how to operate the tills. I enjoyed being in the shops because I get on with people and liked talking to the people who come in.
Whilst I’ve been at Emmaus I’ve done different courses. I got a City & Guilds certificate and done a warehousing course, customer service training and mental health awareness course at college. I’ll keep going to the craft group, Emmaus sorted out for me when I move on. It’s nice there and I have made new friends.
I loved working with the volunteers. I showed them what to do. When I’m settled in my new place, I want to come back and volunteer. I like coming into the shops. It’s giving back to charity by volunteering.
I celebrated my 50th birthday at Emmaus. Everyone helped make that special. I have made some good friends and I love the people here.
I want to give a good thank you to everyone who helps Emmaus out. Lots of people support Emmaus. People give things to sell in the charity shops. This all really helps.
Moving into a new home
In 2024, I moved just around the corner into a supported living flat. It was time for a change, and this will be something different. I have got someone who will visit me regularly to help me go shopping and with cooking.
People in Emmaus helped me get my flat and helped me move. Moving was hard work. Things at the flat have already been fixed and there are new carpets, new lampshades and photos to go up. I got some of these things from the Emmaus shops.
I have my own bathroom, kitchen, lounge and there is a shared lounge and shared laundry. It is nice to lock my door. When I lock the front door, it is my own.
There are lots of people at my new flats and I will make new friends. One of the girls there has already brought me sandwiches. She showed me around the flat.
If I could say anything about Emmaus, I would say come to Emmaus. They can help you with a nice, clean home. They give you a place and help with meals. They help other people too – people who are struggling with things.
If you are homeless or at risk, and would like support from Emmaus, you can find out more by visiting our Get Support page here.