First Minister of Wales becomes a Salvation Army volunteer for the night

First Minister Carwyn Jones has backed The Salvation Army’s homelessness work in Cardiff by working as a volunteer on its Bus Project.

Mr Jones AM last night joined staff and other volunteers on the double-decker as he dished out hot drinks and food to rough sleepers in the city centre.

The Bus Project – or the Big Purple Bus as it known - operates in the city centre five nights a week, 52 weeks a year – is a vital part of frontline homelessness services in Cardiff. It is run by The Salvation Army’s Crichton House Outreach Services and is the main service for people who are sleeping rough in Cardiff.

Each night around 40 men and women receive hot food, clothing and warm shelter for a few hours. Salvation Army staff are also on hand to refer people to emergency accommodation and other support services across the city such as mental health, advocacy and chaplaincy.

The First Minister said: “I was glad to help out last night on the Big Purple Bus. It was good to see first hand the tireless work The Salvation Army does throughout the year to help homeless people here in Wales.”

Major David Emery, Public Affairs Officer for Wales and chaplain at our Ty Gobaith Lifehouse, said: “It was a delight to arrange for the First Minister to see and hear the stories of those who use the services we offer. It was also great to see the man behind the office being prepared to interact with those he willingly served refreshments to.”