The charity have also saved 400 tonnes of waste from going to landfill through the 9,470 household items collected during the period of July 2022 to end of June 2023.

Executive Lead, John Webbe, said: “We are continuously working to help others as much as we can and via our referral system and the excellent work our staff and volunteers do, we are able to reach hundreds of families each year.

“By receiving quality furniture and household donations, we are able to either provide those who may not be able to afford items or recycle them and offer them for sale via our emporium and large shop.”

John adds: “As well as supporting local people, we are also very conscious and keen to help with the environment and helping to prevent waste as much as we can is something else which is key to what we do.”

Emmaus North Staffs were commended for their commitment to the environment when awarded the Sustainability Award at the Potteries Centre Annual Awards in May 2023.

John and his staff have been encouraging other businesses based at the centre to donate unwanted goods and recycle them instead of going to waste since moving the charity shop there in May 2022.

The charity also regularly run recycling woodwork workshops for members of the community – which provide life and employment skills at the same time.

The Emmaus North Staffs Potteries Centre Shop and emporium is open to the public six days a week.

To follow Emmaus North Staffs journey over the next 12 months visit emmaus.org.uk/north-staffs/

Also find the charity on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmmausNorthStaffs

Twitter: @Emmaus_NStaffs

Instagram:@emmausnorthstaffs