I am the Community Manager of Emmaus North East and a Trustee of Emmaus UK.

In 2019 I undertook a Fellowship to investigate how farming and the natural environment could be harnessed, supporting those experiencing homelessness and as a progression route. The purpose was to explore best practice and policies, to inform how those who are excluded can reconnect, engage, and discover purpose and meaning.

The natural environment has always provided support and a place to reconnect for myself and I wanted to discover more about this restorative process. Prior to working in homelessness I was engaged in farming and wanted to see if the two sectors could be linked in a practical way to benefit both.

On returning from my Fellowship I am actively exploring how I can establish a project in the north east of England that incorporates the environment, work and community in supporting people to heal and grow. The Fellowship allowed me to take time out from quite a stressful role to investigate an area I believe can have major benefits to individuals, but also the natural environment as we only truly value what we know.