A team of formerly homeless people from local charity, Emmaus Salford are using their skills to volunteer with Helping Hands – a social enterprise offering minor repairs and handyperson support to vulnerable Salford residents.
The partnership has seen five formerly homeless people from Emmaus Salford give their time to support Helping Hands over the past six months. Typically at least one person from Emmaus Salford volunteers each day, working with Helping Hands staff to carry out a range of services from replacing light bulbs to sprucing up garden areas.
Robbo, companion at Emmaus Salford, said: “I’ve really enjoyed working with the team at Helping Hands and getting stuck into the gardening work. I’ve learned loads and gained lots of experience. My family are happy that I’m doing something I enjoy and find rewarding.”
Helping Hands improves the quality of life for Salford residents by providing a reliable, affordable and trustworthy minor repair service, particularly to people who are disadvantaged and vulnerable. The social enterprise can support anyone but offers a free service to people aged over 65 and in receipt of benefits or individuals with physical, sensory or other disability.
Joan Fielder, CEO at Helping Hands, said: “Helping Hands and Emmaus have developed a strong partnership. The volunteers from Emmaus work side by side with our team. It has been a great success and what great volunteers they have been! Their contribution is highly valued by me and other colleagues here at Helping Hands, long may it continue.”
Emmaus Salford supports formerly homeless people by offering a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to get back on their feet again. The concept of solidarity, helping others less fortunate than yourself, is also the central ethos of Emmaus and a motivation for the volunteers supporting Helping Hands.
To support Emmaus Salford, head to www.emmaus.org.uk/salford. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 0161 737 8279 or visit one of our shops.