About us
One of the great things about working at Emmaus Suffolk is that you never lose sight of the people that you are working for, literally. The people that we help, the community that we are building are here together every day. There is no faceless corporate machine, no head office in a faraway place detached from the people we are helping and the people helping us. No one is too important to make their own tea or make tea for anyone else, or help fulfil a café order if they happen to be in the kitchen. Our hub at The Dales is always busy, occasionally slightly manic but still manages to be a haven for many. Whether people come to keep themselves busy, combat loneliness or to learn a new skill they always find a willing ear and often in turn become one themselves. We include our customers when we talk about our community as many of them are regulars who visit the café and catch up on all the news and have formed friendships with volunteers and staff. In the corridor which leads through to the shop we have a mural painted on the wall by one of our volunteers David and Leah our social worker on placement. It is a tree and the leaves are quotes from volunteers about their feelings and their experiences with us. Don't take our word for it, here are a few quotes from our volunteers and companions: • I have definitely become more social, I use to be shy and this has helped me overcome this and give me new experiences. • It has reduced my drinking and made me less depressed. • It has helped me meet other people and help the community. • I find it easier to talk to strangers than previously. I have less anxiety generally. • I feel part of a family. • I have gained a lot of self confidence and self-esteem. I look forward to coming to work at the shop and feel I am making a difference to others.
