Press Release

  home : news & information : news : Emmaus Makeover

Homeless accommodation gets free makeover

Volunteers from Virgin Money and Royal Bank of Scotland outside Emmaus House. (l-r) Chris Jones and Paul Arthur of RBS with Natalie Barker of Virgin Money, displaying the specially created artwork, designed by Paul and colleague Jackie Gregory. Paul Arthur and Jackie Gregory busy working to refurbish the front garden at Emmaus House. Click the images for a larger versions of these images.

In just two days, a dedicated group of workers from two major financial institutions have given Emmaus House, Aldershot's 'first stop' for homeless young people, a thorough makeover – and all at no cost to the charity.

A group of twenty volunteers from Virgin Money and UKI Partnerships descended on Emmaus House in Arthur Street, Aldershot on Tuesday, September 4 and spent two hectic days completely renovating the residents' lounge, the front and back gardens and the staff overnight room. With the enthusiastic assistance of some of the residents, the group swapped their computer keyboards and telephones f or spades, rakes, hammers and paintbrushes, and got down to the hard work of cleaning and redecorating the rooms and re-modeling the gardens. New throws, cushions and furniture have also been provided, along with a splendid new artwork specially created by two of the volunteers: Paul Arthur and Jackie Gregory. The gardens now boast hanging baskets, painted fences and a designated smoking area.

“They all worked really hard,” reported Michelle Berry, Step by Step's Project Co-ordinator for Emmaus House, “and the whole place looks much fresher, tidier and more welcoming than it did – the residents are very pleased with the results.” “Our staff, who are on call 24 hours, are also delighted that their overnight accommodation has been upgraded – it's a much nicer environment now,” she added.

Virgin Money and the Royal Bank of Scotland regularly sponsor their employees to help with charitable and fund-raising projects across the country through their respective community investment schemes. Step by Step was chosen as a suitable project through Virgin Unite's support for homelessness charity the Foyer Federation. Steve Frost, Head of Customer Experience at Virgin Money said, “It's great to get involved in supporting young people in this way.”

For Karen Roberts, the Royal Bank Bank of Scotland's team leader, it was an eye-opening experience. “This is the first time the team has been involved in a community project and it's been a fantastic success.” she said. “It was really good to work alongside the young people and staff at Emmaus House.”

In addition to the volunteer help, several local companies donated materials free of charge, including Coomers of Bordon and Tourist Skips.

Amanda Dubarry, Chief Executive of Step by Step, said, “We really value help of this sort not only for the immediate benefits but also because it provides an opportunity for our young people to get involved in achieving something tangible and worthwhile.”

©2007 Step by Step Partnership Ltd   :   Reg. Charity No. 900308    :   Company No. 2431825