The service, led by Rev Neil Gardner, will feature a festive mixture of carols, readings and personal stories from Crisis clients and staff, as well as an address by Jon Sparkes, Crisis chief executive.

Staff and volunteers from Crisis Skylight Edinburgh will welcome guests from 5.30pm, prior to the service starting at 6pm.

The carol service is free and everyone can register for tickets here.

Crisis Skylight Centre in Edinburgh works with homeless people, supporting them in their journey towards independence through education and training. In the past year the centre has helped more than 420 people, with 58 qualifications awarded, and 29 people securing permanent jobs.

“Christmas can be a lonely, isolating time for those without a home to call their own. We want to provide homeless people with the shelter and companionship that many of us take for granted at Christmas, and also give them the chance to have a more positive year ahead through the life-changing services offered at our Crisis Skylight centre,” said Ann Landels, director of Crisis Skylight Edinburgh.

Once again, Crisis Skylight in Edinburgh will open its doors to members on Christmas Day and Boxing Day offering support, companionship, activities and vital services – and for the first time the centre will also be welcoming guests on New Year’s Day. More than 400 people are expected to come for the good food, company and vital services provided by more than 350 volunteers.

Across the UK in 2014, Crisis at Christmas welcomed 4,562 guests in Edinburgh, London and Newcastle, supported by almost 9,000 volunteers.

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