I came to Emmaus South Wales after a difficult period in my life. I’d moved to South Wales from the Southeast of England for a fresh start, but things didn’t go as planned. I struggled to find work, my mental health declined, and I feared becoming street homeless. That’s when I heard about Emmaus—and reaching out was the best decision I could have made. Since joining in October last year, my life has changed for the better in so many ways.
Daily life
I really enjoy working with the other companions at the Emmaus stores and I’m putting my customer service skills to good use by helping customers. In the mornings I either walk or catch the bus to the store where I spend my time PAT testing, sorting stock or serving customers. Other days I am on the vans collecting or delivering furniture. After the store closes, we all arrive back at the community for dinner and afterwards I’ll either play pool or watch TV with the other companions. If I want some time out, I’ll head to my room and play on my x-box.
Training
I have gained quite a few qualifications since moving here including bike maintenance level 1 and I am hoping to start level 2 soon. The PAT testing course I did means I can now PAT test electrical donations in store, ensuring they are safe to sell, which I really enjoy, plus I have done other general courses like the health and safety ones.
Community involvement
My days here are fulfilling. It’s been easy to make friends with the other companions because we are all in a similar situation. The support team have been invaluable, I am very grateful to them all. We have had some great days out; recently we all walked up Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales. I feel safe and settled at Emmaus which is the best I have felt for years.
Looking ahead
Emmaus is where I have the best memories. I love living at Emmaus South Wales and I plan to stay a while yet. The support and sense of community here have made a huge difference to my mental health – I am in a much better place now. One of the things I love most about Emmaus is seeing the positive impact it has on both companions and customers it’s truly rewarding. I am currently exploring the idea of moving to Emmaus Portugal as I am interested in the Portuguese culture, but I’m not sure if that will be a possibility yet. Emmaus has given me a fresh start in a supportive community, and I’m looking forward to building a brighter future.