Research suggests that almost all homeless people want to move into paid employment, but we know that in our experience our companions face many barriers to do so. Some of the companions we support have a patchy or non-existent employment history, whilst others struggle with mental health problems or substance abuse issues. These factors can count against them when looking for, and keeping, work. On top of that, being homeless can erode people's self-esteem and sense of purpose.

Emmaus Oxford help overcome those barriers by offering homeless people meaningful work in our social enterprise. Our companions contribute and learn, getting skills and qualifications on the way. We help them to prepare to move into paid employment when they're ready. Emmaus Oxford run our store and vans as a social enterprise, in which homeless people can work and gain skills which will lead them into employment. Working helps companions to build their self-esteem and routine and to reconnect.