Emmaus Mossley puts volunteers in the frame

Homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley celebrated the difference local volunteers make to their organisation and thanked them as part of this year’s Volunteers’ Week.

On Monday, June 3, volunteers from Emmaus Mossley celebrated with staff and beneficiaries at a special thank you meal at the Allotment Café in Mossley. 

The event was supported by the Action Together Volunteers’ Week Activity Fund to recognise the contribution of all Emmaus Mossley volunteers.

David Kniveton, aged 51 and from Denton, is one of 33 local volunteers who give their time on a weekly basis at Emmaus Mossley.

David said: “I come here volunteering in the Emmaus workshop as it’s a worthwhile cause and helps other people. 

"It’s always nice to do a job, not for monetary gain, but to benefit people. I really enjoy being part of the team of volunteers at Emmaus who give their time and skills to help others in need.”

Emmaus Mossley, based at Longlands Mill in the town, supports 26 formerly homeless people, known as companions, by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. 

Along with the weekly volunteers who help in the Second-hand Superstore, the charity has 11 volunteer trustees as well as occasional volunteers, local fundraisers and professionals who give their time.

Alison Hill, director of Emmaus Mossley, said: “Volunteers’ Week is a fantastic opportunity to thank the dedicated people who support our charity as volunteers. 

“It’s also a chance to recognise the voluntary efforts of our companions who give their time and skills in many ways. These local solidarity actions include helping with canal maintenance and supporting community events as stewards.

“This year, with the kind support of Action Together, we were able to bring our volunteers, trustees and community members together to acknowledge the massive contribution these people make to Emmaus Mossley and the wider community.”

During Volunteers’ Week, June 1-7, charities across the UK held events to thank their volunteers and celebrate the power of volunteering. 

Last year there were more than 600 events across the country, from award ceremonies to tea parties and barbecues.

There are 1,167 voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises in Tameside, and the majority of these are small, volunteer-led groups, with an estimated 34,000 volunteers. 

Action Together estimates that collectively, Tameside volunteers give 83,400 hours each week.