ONE of the most pleasurable aspects of being an MP is meeting those whose efforts bring succour to others.
And no one fits that description better than Emily McCarron, who runs a programme to help rough-sleepers with her husband Eddie.
Their story, in itself, is one to warm your heart, for they met 15 years ago when Eddie was sleeping on the streets.
His personal experience, and her work with the Bournemouth night shelter and the Big Issue, convinced them to set up the charity in December 2016.
The Bus Shelter, as it’s known, is how housed in a double-decker bus at Lodmoor beach in Weymouth.
Emily, Eddie and their team of volunteers provide tailored support 24-hours a day.
The bus, kindly donated by Damory, has 16 bunk beds, a cosy downstairs sitting room and a wood burner.
Currently, there are 10 guests, all referred on by the local authority, the Lantern Trust or Julian House.
Significantly, the bus counts as an address, so they are eligible to sign up with a GP, have access to job training and, essentially, claim housing benefit, which covers some of the shelter’s costs.
However, it’s important that new guests are willing to engage and make changes to their lives.
Emily says that many need to learn to trust again, adapt to new routines and relearn life skills in readiness for work.
The shelter is run as a ‘family’ affair, where meals are eaten together and everyone mucks in, cooking, cleaning and tidying.
If guests need special backup, it’s provided.
As I left to head to my next appointment, I told Emily she must be an angel, but without the wings!
She just smiled and returned to the bus to carry on her inspirational work.