In 2015, 7,500 people slept rough on the streets of London, including 880 under-25s, and research by Crisis shows the figure has almost doubled in six years. They come from every walk of life, but the effects of benefit cuts, the housing crisis and increased migration, along with cuts in funding to services, mean the number of people sleeping rough has increased sharply in recent years.

Emmaus is an international organisation founded in France. Emmaus Lambeth is an independent charity which is part of the UK federation, a charity & community working together to end homelessness.

I spent a day at their centre in Norwood, South London, hanging out with the “companions” – the people the charity supports. Emmaus helps people to work their way out of homelessness by providing meaningful work as well as a stable home for as long as someone needs it.

Thanks to all the Companions, workers & volunteers.

http://www.emmaus.org.uk/