Emmaus Sheffield expanding its services for the homeless
Homelessness charity Emmaus Sheffield is planning to extend its services as national statistics show an increase in the number of people sleeping rough is on the increase.
The government rough sleeping snapshot showing the number of people estimated to be sleeping rough on a single night in autumn last year was 4,793, a new record high exceeding the previous peak of 4,751 in 2017 and the fourth annual increase in a row.
Sheffield is one of the areas where the number has actually fallen - from 9.1 per 100,000 to 6 per 100,000 year on year with 38 rough sleepers identified in the period October and November when the snapshot was taken.
Nevertheless, Emmaus Sheffield is moving ahead with plans to enhance services at its Cadman Street headquarters, close to Sheffield’s Canal Basin.
Emmaus Sheffield is the working community with quality, self-contained accommodation, training facilities and a workspace for previously homeless men and women aged 18 years and over.
It aims through its Social Enterprise programme to provide meaningful work and enable the people it supports – known as companions - to eventually become self-supporting once more.
The charity is now in the formal planning process to expand its accommodation offering from 18 to 25 in response to the ongoing crisis.
“While the positive direction in Sheffield is welcomed, this is not a time to rest on our laurels but rather to double down and keep pressing on,” said Emmaus Sheffield chair of trustees Carl Dray.
“We are looking forward to working with the City Council on its homelessness strategy as it looks to implement the Supported Housing Act aimed at ensuring that real support is provided those to who need it.
“To continue providing real life work opportunities we are expanding and growing our social enterprise.
“We are committed to breaking the circle of homelessness by providing a safe space to live, meaningful work experience linked to worthwhile training, counselling and support and genuine companionship.”
Carl added that, as the expansion plans move ahead, there was an increased need for public support.
“You can help us by volunteering your time or donating your unwanted furniture, clothing, books, CDs and Vinyl and bric a brac for sale in ojur second hand superstore,” he said.
“If you have the time we are desperately seeking volunteer drivers to help us with deliveries and collections.
“If you can help in any way, no matter how small, please contact us and help to make a difference.”
For further information about Emmaus Sheffield and how to get involved with the charity visit emmaus-sheffield.org.uk