Colchester man who kicked cocaine habit to skydive for charity

Alan Oakley had a £1,000 a week cocaine habit but went to the charity Emmaus after becoming homeless when his relationship broke down.

Emmaus Colchester has supported Alan for the past six months with a home in its city-centre accommodation and meaningful work opportunities within the charity.

Later this year, it will help him achieve a lifelong dream.

He now hopes to support the charity pledging to raise £800 for its vital services.

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Emmaus Colchester provides a home for people as long as they may need it, as well as meaningful work and training opportunities in its shops on the High Street and Osborne Street.

Speaking on his fundraiser and his time at Emmaus, Alan said: “I really don’t know what I’d be doing without Emmaus, so this skydive means a lot to me.

"I want to help people who are facing a similar situation to what I went through.

“Emmaus has helped me so much and I want to raise awareness of what they do and how they support people.

“The support and structure Emmaus Colchester has given me have changed my life.

"I have managed to kick a £1,000 a week cocaine habit and haven’t touched it from the minute I walked through the door.

“It has helped me find a new sense of direction and purpose, and whilst I still have work to do on myself, I know in the future that I want to move into support work and help those who have been on a similar journey as my own.”

Brian Cook, chief executive of Emmaus Colchester, said: “We’re so proud of Alan and all that he’s achieved since being at Emmaus Colchester.

"His fundraising will enable us to support other people who have experienced homelessness and support them to regain their self-esteem and confidence.

Alan will brave the skydive at Beccles Airfield, in Norfolk. He will be cheered on by staff and fellow residents on the ground.

To support Alan’s fundraiser, visit bit.ly/3oFH26R.