ng-repeat
expression allows filtered results to be assigned to a variable. This variable will be accessible from current scope so you can use it in same scope anyway you want:
<p>Number of filtered items: {{filteredItems.length}}</p>
<div
ng-show="filteredItems.length > 0"
ng-repeat="item in filteredItems = (items | notEmpty)"
>
{{$index}}
</div>