First Minister John Swinney MSP spent time at St John’s, Princes Street in the Diocese of Edinburgh on Easter Monday, hearing about the Warm Welcome space that has been set up in St John’s.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said: “Projects like the one at St John’s in Edinburgh demonstrate this exactly – the compassion and resilience of our local communities in Scotland has the ability to bring people together, particularly in times of hardship and division.

“It was a privilege to meet guests and volunteers at St. John’s – one of over 5,250 Warm Welcome Spaces across the UK. Spaces like this can be a lifeline to people who are struggling to keep warm and those feeling lonely.”

The Rev David Bagnall, Associate Rector of St John’s said: “We’re located right in the heart of the city, and there’s a growing homeless community in the area. About 18 months ago, we created this space to provide food and hospitality to those who were naturally coming through our doors and it has continued to grow ever since.

“Originally, it was intended as a winter initiative, but when that first winter ended, the community asked if we could keep it going. It had become their space: a place where they gather, share a bowl of soup, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, and have meaningful conversations with one another.”

You can read more about the visit at the Warm Welcome campaign website here.