Lucy has achieved her dream of becoming an author, publishing debut fantasy novel Beneath The Canopy.
Lucy, who writes under the pen name Ally Way, began her book with just 26 pages. With a stable home, support and encouragement at Emmaus, Lucy has completed a manuscript of almost 50,000 words.
Lucy was forced into homelessness after relationships broke down in already-overcrowded accommodation.
Lucy said: “When I came to Emmaus, I finally had the space to focus. I wrote every evening and before I knew it, I had a full story. I can’t believe I’ve finished it – it feels incredible.”
Beneath The Canopy follows the journey of Leora, a young woman who must decide whether to return to the life she once knew or embrace the challenges of a new world. Lucy explains that the story reflects her own experiences of finding stability and belonging at Emmaus Salford.
Emmaus Salford provides people who have experienced homelessness with a stable home, work experience in the charity’s shops and social enterprises, and tailored support to rebuild lives.
Lucy was inspired to write after discussing her goals with the charity’s dedicated on-site learning and development officer, David, who helps people with future plans, accessibility and training.
“Emmaus Salford is an amazing, welcoming place. I’ve grown in ways that I hadn’t been able to before,” Lucy added.
Victoria Carroll, Community Support Director at Emmaus Salford, said: “Lucy’s book is a fantastic achievement. With the right support and environment, people can rediscover their passions and achieve great things.
“Writing has been a huge part of Lucy’s progression and Emmaus is over the moon to have been referenced in her first work. We are very proud of her.”
Beneath The Canopy by Ally Way is now available from Amazon Kindle at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Beneath-Canopy-must-listen-truly-ebook/dp/B0FJVPQCVQ.
If you would like to find out more about the support available from Emmaus Salford, you can visit our homelessness support page in Salford here.