Emmaus Gloucestershire

Emmaus Gloucestershire support people who have experienced, or have been at risk of, homelessness. We do this by providing a stable home alongside care, support and supervision that is individually tailored to enable them to recover and to achieve their goals and aspirations. For many people who experience homelessness, one of the biggest obstacles they must overcome is a loss of self-esteem. Emmaus provides an opportunity to regain this, with a chance to use their existing skills and to develop new skills and qualifications in order to help to rebuild their self esteem and confidence whilst making a real contribution to their community. Emmaus communities are not hostels for the homeless; they provide a home for as long as someone needs it. For many, this support and stability is like the family they don’t have, providing a safe environment in which to settle and re-build their lives. Often this is an opportunity to overcome issues such as addiction, get support with mental health issues or rebuild relationships with estranged family. Social enterprise is central to the Emmaus model as it provides meaningful work experience for companions but also generates part of the funding required to maintain communities. Emmaus communities deliver a significant return on investment. Research shows that for every £1 invested in a community, there is an £11 social, environmental and economic return, with savings to the benefit bill, health services and a reduction in crime.