Charity leader recognised for commitment to the local community by the High Sheriff of Staffordshire

The executive lead of Emmaus North Staffs has been recognised for the outstanding work he has done in the local community over the last eight years.

John Webbe played an integral role setting up of the charity in Stoke-on-Trent in 2017, and has continued to drive the organisation forward with the aim to end furniture poverty.

This drive and commitment has now seen John included in the High Sheriff of Staffordshire Awards 2025.

On Friday 28 March, John attended a special event at the Town Hall, Stoke-on-Trent where he was presented with his award for - ‘Great and valuable service to the Community’ by the High Sheriff of Staffordshire, Julia Mitchell.

“To be recognised in the High Sheriff Awards is truly unbelievable and a great honour,” says John.

“I have always been a big believer in supporting others and have a passion for communities and for positive impact, which is why I was so keen to bring Emmaus North Staffs to Stoke-on-Trent in the first place - and did so with the amazing support from colleagues in Bolton.”

John adds: “Over the years we have grown as a charity and via our Furniture and Home emporium in Hanley, we are able to provide quality items to families who may be unable to afford basic essentials for the home.

“In 2022, we also launched our Beds for Kids campaign and have delivered hundreds of brand new bed bundles to local children who do not have a bed of their own. In the last year this has equated to around £80,000 of brand new bed bundles.”

John was amongst 37 individuals who were presented with an award this year, including the Fenton Doers, Disability Solutions and Mitchell Arts Centre.

Mrs Julia Mitchell said: “It’s been a memorable year. I’ve been profoundly impressed by the extraordinary people I’ve been privileged to meet across Staffordshire.    

“So many individuals, volunteers and organisations have gone way above and beyond in the course of their duties. I wish to recognise what they do, and applaud those achievements with honour.   

“And to host the Awards Ceremony in Stoke-on-Trent’s magnificent Jubilee Hall has added even greater sparkle, as we celebrate our City’s glorious Centenary.” 

The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Lyn Sharpe said: “We were absolutely delighted that the High Sheriff chose to hold these awards in Stoke-on-Trent during our milestone 100th anniversary year.

“As Lord Mayor of this incredible city, I couldn’t be prouder. Having lived here all my life, I truly love Stoke-on-Trent, and it’s fantastic to see us showcasing what makes our community so special.

“These awards celebrate the individuals and organisations that make our city and the county of Staffordshire such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.

“Of course, it’s an honour for the Fenton Doers to be recognised for our work. If it needs doing in Fenton, we get it done. It’s also fantastic to see Emmaus North Staffs - one of my chosen charities - and all the other outstanding people and organisations recognised for the brilliant work they do across the city and county. These awards truly shine a light on the very best of Staffordshire.”

For more information about Emmaus North Staffs please visit https://emmaus.org.uk/north-staffs/