Crisis at Christmas 2023: Interview with Jess
Members of Emmaus SLC staff, companions and friends participated in the annual ‘Crisis at Christmas’ event this year organised by fellow homelessness charity Crisis.
The Christmas period can be especially hard for people struggling with homelessness. Not only are weather conditions worse, but the emotional toll can very heavy for people who are struggling with personal issues during this time.
One of our Trustees, Jess, has been active in Crisis at Christmas since 2019. We spoke to her about her experience doing shifts at Crisis:
What is your history with Crisis at Christmas?
My first shift was in 2019 and this is how I met James Hayes (Emmaus SLC CEO) and how I was introduced to Emmaus SLC!
What made you want to do shifts for Crisis at Christmas originally?
I’ve known about it (Crisis at Christmas) for a while. In 2019 I was working in Mental Health support and the world seemed very broken to me. I felt that people were treated very unfairly by society, especially people struggling with homelessness. I came into contact with a lot of people struggling with, or at risk of homelessness and I recognised how important the work of organisations like Crisis was. I thought there was no point sitting around thinking about how badly the world treats people, I should see if there’s anything I can do to help with the skills I have.
What support did you offer during your shifts?
I tend to do Guest Welfare roles. This involves working with people who might be more vulnerable, experiencing a range of issues, such as mental ill health, trauma, abuse, substance misuse.. This could involve referring and signposting people to further support or just having a friendly chat over a cup of tea. I did my shifts in the evenings which can be a time when there are fewer support services available, has gone so I tried to provide this essential support during this time.
What other support have you offered?
This year I spent time checking on the welfare and wellbeing on Guest who we hadn’t seen for a while, and having conversation with people who may find being referred to additional support helpful. . We also had conversations with guests who potentially could be new companions for Emmaus SLC. A lot of what we were doing was chatting with people. It might sound simple, but this goes a long way.
Why do you think Crisis at Christmas is important?
Crisis at Christmas is very important for guests because it introduced them to other opportunities for them to find long-term support post-Christmas. The high expectation of Christmas can be very isolating for people facing homelessness and Crisis at Christmas gives them a safe space to enjoy the festive period and provides some respite and rest. There’s a communal connection amongst many of the guests. For example, many Guests enjoy doing activities together like watching football or doing karaoke. It gives guests a chance to feel involved.
How do you feel after Crisis at Christmas 2023?
It gives me more faith in humanity. The first time I volunteered I was happy to see that so many people were willing to give up their free time to help their fellow human beings. I get the chance to meet so many wonderful people, both guests and volunteers. Having conversations with Guests allows you to better understand . It humanises people who are sadly too often dehumanised by society. It makes me feel more connected to a sense of solidarity.
There’s quote from Angel that I hold with me:
“If nothing you do matters then all that matters is what you do. The smallest act of kindness if the greatest thing in the world.”
Are considering doing it again next year?
I hope so! It has been something I’ve loved doing every year.
Would you recommend others to volunteer?
Yes, definitely.
If you want to know more about Crisis, please see their website here.