Homelessness and rough sleeping remains a problem for people across the UK and it is no different here in Swansea. The causes are complicated, and the solutions are equally complex.

I have often been guilty of passing judgement on individuals who I neither know, nor do I understand the circumstances that have placed them in the position they find themselves. Although somewhat overdue, I would now like to try and help, if only in a small way.

I know that subjecting myself to one cold and uncomfortable night is not a great sacrifice, especially as I had many such nights early in my Army career, but as a septuagenarian, who has been used to a very comfortable life for some considerable time now, I suspect I may be in for a shock!

What initially triggered my involvement was the plight of homeless veterans but I do find it appalling that anyone should have to live like this, irrespective of the path that led them there.

I hope therefore that, in some small way, my taking part in the Swans Big Sleepout 2025 helps raise the profile of the issue and that any monies you might see fit to donate give a much needed boost to the charities working to tackle homelessness head on.