Writer supported by Salford homelessness charity publishes debut novel

A woman has achieved her dream of becoming a published author, thanks to the help of a Salford homelessness charity.

Lucy, who writes under the pen name Ally Way, was forced into homelessness after relationships broke down in already crowded accommodation.

She turned to Emmanus Salford, a charity providing a home and meaningful work experience to people that have experienced homelessness to help them rebuild their lives.

The volunteer ran charity is funded through a mix of external donations, grants and income from its own social enterprise activities – and this helped to give Lucy a safe place to write.

Lucy began her book with just 26 pages. With a stable home, routine and encouragement at Emmaus, Lucy has completed a manuscript of almost 50,000 words.

Lucy said: “When I came to Emmaus, I finally had the space to focus. I wrote every evening and before I knew it, I had a full story. I can’t believe I’ve finished it – it feels incredible.”

Beneath The Canopy follows the journey of Leora, a young woman who must decide whether to return to the life she once knew or embrace the challenges of a new world. Lucy explains that the story reflects her own experiences of finding stability and belonging at Emmaus Salford.

Emmaus Salford provides people who have experienced homelessness with a stable home, work experience in the charity’s shops and social enterprises, and tailored support to rebuild lives.

Lucy was inspired to write after discussing her goals with the charity’s dedicated on-site learning and development officer, David, who helps people with future plans, accessibility and training.

“Emmaus Salford is an amazing, welcoming place. I’ve grown in ways that I hadn’t been able to before,” Lucy added.

Victoria Carroll, Community Support Director at Emmaus Salford, said: “Lucy’s book is a fantastic achievement. With the right support and environment, people can rediscover their passions and achieve great things.

“Writing has been a huge part of Lucy’s progression and Emmaus is over the moon to have been referenced in her first work. We are very proud of her.”