Queen Camilla visited Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney, a charity providing accommodation, therapy, and work experience for homeless individuals, praising its "brilliant" work and specific support for women survivors of abuse. The 79-year-old royal, who has been a patron of Emmaus UK for 20 years, toured the facility, which is the first in the country to offer separate accommodation and services for nine women. During her visit, she spoke with several "companions," including a woman who shared how the center helped her overcome alcohol abuse after her children were placed in care due to domestic violence. "Just being part of something, making friends," she told the Queen, describing the supportive community. "Being part of a community? And having people who understand your situation? So you rely on each other. I don’t think there’s anywhere like it," Camilla responded.
Another young woman recounted how the women's project had been life-changing, stating it "saved my life" after she experienced sexual violence and struggled to navigate life and employment. Queen Camilla expressed her pleasure at hearing such success stories, noting the presence of "every generation" and calling the work "just brilliant."
Melanie, another companion, addressed the Queen, acknowledging her as a "champion of women’s causes." She highlighted the impact of the women's project, which provides intensive therapeutic intervention over a year, stating it was "life-changing" for those who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence. "For women who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence to be seen, heard and empowered means the world," Melanie said, expressing gratitude for Camilla's support. Queen Camilla was visibly impressed, stating she hoped the model would be rolled out nationally.
Her Majesty was greeted by Sir Terry Waite, president of Emmaus UK. She toured the women's center and a new shop selling items made from recycled fabrics by the companions. "What beautiful things you have, and you are learning new skills that can take you elsewhere. Brilliant. You could go into design, creative arts, anything," she remarked.
In the former nunnery's library, Queen Camilla inaugurated a new "Book Nook," the first established in partnership with her Queen's Reading Room charity. She personally selected and donated books for the residents. "It’s a perfect spot," she commented on the reading area, adding, "These are books I’ve read that I thought you might like. There’s a bit of everything; there are some really good ones here. Handpicked."
Cecile Roberts, chief executive of Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney, explained the development of the women's wing, which began eight years ago with a three-bed unit that quickly filled. The subsequent realization that many women survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence needed specialized support led to the co-design of the current year-long therapeutic intervention project, which can accommodate nine women annually. Roberts expressed pride in the Queen's visit, noting how it validated the work and especially empowered the women who spoke with her.
During the visit, Queen Camilla also watched companions prepare copper for crafting bowls to be sold in the charity shop. She unveiled a plaque commemorating her 20 years of patronage and attended a reception. The charity's community includes 52 rooms, shops selling second-hand goods, a cafe, and a forge, contributing to the companions' rehabilitation and skill development.