A NEW chapter has begun at Emmaus Mossley at a time when demand for homelessness support continues to grow.
Ant Hopkinson has officially started as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Mossley-based charity, which provides a residential community and long-term support for people working to rebuild their lives after homelessness.
Speaking after his first days in the role, he said: “I’m incredibly proud to be joining Emmaus Mossley and to be part of such a special community. I’ve already been inspired by the warmth, resilience and determination of the people here, and I’m excited to work alongside staff and companions to build on the charity’s strong foundations.
“At a time when homelessness and hardship are rising across our communities, the role Emmaus plays has never been more vital. Together, we’ll continue to create opportunities for people to move forward with confidence and purpose.”
Mr Hopkinson brings a track record in the voluntary sector, with experience spanning organisational development, partnership building and frontline service delivery. He most recently served as CEO of Sahir, a charity focused on improving the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV across Merseyside.
His appointment follows a recruitment process that concluded earlier this year, and he will work alongside outgoing CEO Alison Hill until June to ensure a smooth transition.
Keith Skerman, Chair of Emmaus Mossley, said: “The Emmaus Mossley Board warmly welcomed Ant Hopkinson at his first Board meeting in his new role on 14 April. He will build on our success and work with us to meet the challenges ahead.”
Set in the Tame Valley, the Emmaus Mossley community provides accommodation for up to 26 people at a time. Residents, known within Emmaus as companions, are supported not just with housing, but with opportunities to build confidence, gain work experience and develop the skills needed to move forward independently.
Mr Hopkinson’s arrival comes as many local charities report increasing pressure on services, with rising living costs and housing challenges pushing more people into hardship.
Emmaus Mossley hopes its new leadership will help strengthen its response to those challenges while continuing its long-standing mission of offering a stable home and a fresh start to those who need it most.