Situated in Nottingham's ultra-chic area of cyber bars and kitsch boutiques, you might be forgiven for thinking that Nottingham's Emmanuel House, a shelter for the disadvantaged, is a little out of place. But the unassuming building at the end of Goosegate is home to many of Nottingham's homeless community and is manned by a team of 20 full-time workers with up to 150 part-timers at any one time.

'The ethos of the centre is that we welcome everyone, give them respect and treat them fairly - these are the fundamental principles of Emmanuel House,' says Teresa Vallance the volunteers coordinator, 'that people can come in and be accepting of others, regardless of what choices they've made in their life, or situation they're in.'

As well as providing services for the visitors, Teresa says that Emmanuel House 'tries to encourage people to manage their own finances.' The shelter provides meals and bedding for very reasonable prices, but, she adds, 'there is a safety net if anyone is in real difficulty.'

Anyone with a skill is particularly welcome to volunteer at Emmanuel House. 'We do have drop in services - nurses, a mental health support team, a chiropodist, and hairdressers are all available at different times of the week.'

Moreover, there are specific support workers, who tend to concentrate on areas such as benefits advice, or drug rehabilitation.

As the Volunteers Coordinator, Teresa has witnessed some remarkable scenes at Emmanuel House.

Asked if it's common for volunteers to get to know the visitors, she says 'Yes, definitely, most volunteers work in the coffee bar. Serving someone a cup of tea is and excellent way of breaking down barriers.'

It's not uncommon to witness definite results: 'Some do get work and become independent - actually there's been a case quite recently of someone who's moved on, and is doing really well.'

Students have traditionally played a big part in the volunteer workforce, and Teresa talks fondly of past helpers. The biggest problem comes with the onset of academic holidays.

She says: 'We've got some fantastic volunteers, but they tend to go home in the holidays, which leaves a bit of a gap in the rota. I get my apron out every now and again and help out in the kitchen.'

The shelter does have volunteers from all different backgrounds, ranging from the age of 17 to 73. However, Teresa is quick to point out that not everyone is suited to the work. 'We really need people who will be open, understanding and patient. A sense of humour helps as well!'

Inevitably, there are also the financial and motivational hardships that come with any charitable work, but Teresa remains upbeat: 'there are difficulties but we've got an excellent team, we support each other well and it's a pretty good place to work really.'

------

If you would like to get involved with a project or even just find out more about Emmanuel House and the work it does, please call Teresa on 0115 950 7140.