Martin Davies received the Emmaus UK 30th Anniversary Founders Medal, marking his 24 years as chairman of the Sheffield Charity and his eight-year term as a trustee as chairman of Emmaus UK himself.
Emmaus Sheffield is the drug and alcohol free project that provides a home, support and work for the city’s former homeless people.
Through his social enterprise program, he aims to provide meaningful work and enable the people he supports – called companions – to eventually become independent again.
The national award coincides with Martin’s decision to step down as president, although he insists he will continue as an Emmaus volunteer.
As one of the founders of Emmaus Sheffield, Martin recognized the need for an organization that would provide a positive support structure for homeless people who are committed to changing their lives.
And he was one of the driving forces behind the campaign which brought the historic Sipelia factory close to the Sheffield Canal Basin and transformed it into an Emmaus community which, since its opening in 2008, has provided support. and new opportunities for more than 260 men. and women.
Martin, a former South Yorkshire Police Deputy Chief Constable, first became involved in homelessness issues in the 1990s, identifying the need for a new approach to tackling life issues in the street.
After being introduced to Emmaus UK – the charity that provides a home, meaningful work and a sense of belonging to previously homeless people across the country – in 1996, he was part of the group that aimed to bring Emmaus philosophy in Sheffield.
A major turning point has been the identification of Sipelia Works as a potential home for the community of Sheffield, a vision that has come true through determination and generous grant giving.
“It might have seemed an unusual choice at the time, but Sipelia Works was the right place for Emmaus,” says Martin.
“It’s almost downtown and the people of Sheffield, the trusts, the churches and the board have all been very supportive.
“And of course the whole Emmaus team has worked so hard over the years to maintain our excellent service.”
Martin adds, however, that the most important part of the Emmaus community has always been the companions themselves.
“Too often their dignity is gone when they come to us and part of our process is to help them rebuild their lives and their dignity and give them the self-confidence to be able to face life again,” says -he.
“Being part of Emmaus has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my professional and public life and has given me the greatest personal satisfaction.
“After 24 years, the time has come for a change – we need new people to give the association new energy and a new sense of purpose and direction.
“I was at a loss for words when I realized I had received the national award and I feel like I have received a great honor. “
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Source: www.thestar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-18 10:13:18
