Previously homeless Callum passes his driving test

Reporter: Judith Grinter

Last year Callum Pressley was homeless, spending night after night sleeping on friends sofas. This month the 24 year old is celebrating passing his driving test, following support from homelessness charity, Emmaus.

Callum, joined Emmaus Mossley as a companion (formerly homeless person) in October 2016, following a two-year stint sofa surfing. Since then he has been receiving support and training to enable him to re-build his self-esteem and move on with his life.

As part of his personal development, Callum was keen to pass his driving test, so he saved up to pay for his provisional license and theory test, which he passed first time. Callum went on to receive funding towards his driving lessons and test from the Emmaus UK Companion Training Fund, and on 26 October successfully passed his driving test.

Speaking about his success, Callum said: “I’m absolutely over the moon that I passed my driving test and I still can’t believe it. I would like to say a big thank you to Emmaus Mossley and Emmaus UK for supporting me through my driving lessons and test, both financially and mentally. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them and I passed first time – what more can I ask for.”

Alison Hill, Director at Emmaus Mossley, said: “Helping people gain skills, qualifications and experience to enable them to progress in their lives is what Emmaus is all about. We’re all very proud of Callum’s success and it is a testament to his character and determination that he passed both tests first time.”

Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The charity runs a social enterprise in Mossley, selling donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes, bric-a-brac and vintage wares.

To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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