Luton man is driving ahead with his life

Dean - originally from Luton - found his mental health deteriorating in his late 20s, which eventually led to him sleeping rough for many weeks. Dean’s luck changed when Emmaus Village Carlton offered him a place in their Bedfordshire community as a companion, with a home and meaningful work for as long as he needed it. Since then he has been receiving support and training to re-build his self-esteem and move on with his life.

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

Speaking about his success, Dean said: “I’m really happy and relieved that I passed and I still can’t believe it. I’d like to say a big thank you to Emmaus Village Carlton, not only for supporting me through my driving lessons and test, but for helping me to turn my life around.

“Emmaus are also putting me through my bricklaying qualifications. I’ve done the first year and I’m just about to complete my Level 2 NVQ. Passing my driving test is the next step towards changing my life, as when I’m a qualified bricklayer I can start looking for jobs. I feel positive about the future - my life is back on track.”

Emmaus Village Carlton supports 42 formerly homeless people. Funds are raised through their Home Store charity shop and bistro in Carlton, with local people donating unwanted items for resale.

Angela Foll, community director of Emmaus Village Carlton, said: “We’re all extremely proud of Dean. He’s come a long way in the two years he’s been with us. With his driving licence, he can now pursue his plan to seek work as a bricklayer once he’s completed his training.”

To find out more about Emmaus Village Carlton visit www.emmaus.org.uk/village_carlton