Crisis at Christmas in Edinburgh is a major annual project by the national homelessness charity, Crisis, that provides vital services—including warm meals,, accommodation,, companionship, and support services—to people experiencing homelessness over the festive period. It operates as a volunteer-led initiative to combat isolation and provide, long-term, support to help people leave homelessness behind.
Crisis at Christmas is a charity appeal that helps us provide warm meals, shelter, support and companionship at Christmas to those experiencing homelessness.
Yes, Edinburgh is widely considered worth visiting at Christmas for its magical atmosphere, large Christmas markets, festive lights, unique attractions, and the lead-up to Hogmanay, though visitors should be prepared for cold, potentially wet weather and crowds, especially around the main markets. It transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, markets in Princes Street Gardens, rides, ice skating, and unique experiences like George Street's light displays, offering a blend of traditional Scottish charm and European-style festivities, making it a popular and enchanting winter destination.
Crisis at Christmas is completely free and open to anyone over 18 who is experiencing homelessness. Crisis at Christmas services run annually in December. If you are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, please visit our Skylight pages to get year-round support.
Edinburgh Christmas on a Budget! How Long Will £50 Last!
What is the 56 day homeless rule?
The "56 day homeless rule" in the UK refers to the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, where local councils have two key 56-day duties: a Prevention Duty (if at risk of homelessness within 56 days) and a Relief Duty (if already homeless) to help individuals find stable housing, all under a personalized plan, before deciding on a main housing duty. This process involves assessing needs, creating a plan with actions for both the council and the person, and aiming to secure accommodation lasting at least six months, with duties ending after 56 days if successful or if the council meets its obligations.
Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We help people directly out of homelessness and campaign for the changes needed to solve it altogether. We work directly with people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in 9 areas across England, Scotland and Wales.
Glasgow. Glasgow is one of Scotland's liveliest festive hubs, offering a vibrant mix of world-class shopping and its spectacular Winter Wonderland event. The city sparkles with festive lights, street markets, and family-friendly events, including a Santa's grotto and holiday concerts.
Is Edinburgh very cold in winter? It can feel chilly, especially with wind or damp weather. Average temperatures range from 1°C to 7°C. Dressing in layers, including a warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf, will keep you comfortable.
Large homelessness charities often offer up hot food on Christmas Day in various locations across the country and you can volunteer to help them. Crisis and The Salvation Army are just two of the charities offering vital support, shelter and food on Christmas Day.
Does The Salvation Army serve the LGBTQ Community? Yes. Any person who walks through our doors will receive assistance based on their need and our capacity to help. Our mission is to the preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in His name without discrimination.
How much money does the CEO of the Salvation Army get?
As of Jan 18, 2026, the average annual pay for a Salvation Army Ceo in the United States is $82,146 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $39.49 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,579/week or $6,845/month.
You don't have to be sleeping on the streets to be considered homeless. You can apply for help even if you have somewhere to live but it's not suitable. For example, if you're staying on a friend's sofa or your home is overcrowded.
While "homeless" and "unhoused" are often used interchangeably to describe people lacking permanent housing, "unhoused" is increasingly favored by some as a more respectful and person- centered term.
You can donate non-perishable, unopened, packaged foods. Snacks (i.e., granola bars, dried fruits, cookies, chips, etc.) Perishable foods that require refrigeration and foods prepared in a private home cannot be donated by an individual.
