Thousands of people are homeless in the UK

In Swansea, Christians Together (Acts) - part of the Church Army Group - is doing its bit to ease the suffering of people who live on the streets.

It is working with other religious groups to co-ordinate a response to homelessness.

Last month a range of Church Army projects across Wales worked particularly with young people.

More than 9,000 households in Wales were considered homeless and at least 700 of those were being put up in bed and breakfast, many for more than a month.

In November, BBC Wales' Dragon's Eye programme discovered the total bill for bed and breakfast accommodation across Wales would top �4m. The previous financial year's bill was �1.5m.

Before a homeless person will experience any desire to improve their lot, he/she must be convinced of their own self-worth David Palmer, ACTS

David Palmer, works with Act in Swansea : "Although the council has a responsibility for homeless people, the bulk of the work is undertaken by voluntary groups, agencies and the church going out on the streets regularly to share Christian care and compassion to those in need.

"I know many of those we meet on the streets as I run a daily tea and toast breakfast for the homeless in St Mary's Church in the city centre, which regularly helps up to 20 people a day.

'Love and care'

"Not all are rough sleepers - there are also those staying in hostels or staying with friends or in need of alternative accommodation and care for a variety of reasons."

Every night Acts serves soup in various locations such as multi-story car parks, the high street and shop doorways in the city.

Mr Palmer added: "It is much more than tea and toast as each person attending receives a warm welcome and a listening ear- the offer of prayer is rarely refused.

"Before a homeless person will experience any desire to improve their lot, he/she must be convinced of their own self-worth."

Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan said: "God in Christ challenges us to remember those who are dependent on the love and care of others, especially the homeless, or those who for any reason find themselves at a crisis point in their lives.