A LEADING charity is asking people to donate unwanted Christmas gifts which will benefit rough sleepers in the city.

The Simon Community is looking for warm clothing, underwear and toiletries to keep the homeless community cope with the harsh winter weather.

Suggested items for re-gifting including socks, tights, briefs, sanitary items, gloves, scarves, T-shirts, soap, hairbrushes, make-up, perfume and slippers.

Lorraine McGrath, chief executive of Simon Community Scotland, the country’s largest homeless charity, said: “Being homeless is a stressful experience at any time of year, taking a significant toll on physical wellbeing and mental health and the colder months area particularly vulnerable period for the community.

“We are asking the public to help give a vital post-Christmas boost to our campaign by donating any unwanted gifts that may be useful for a homeless person.

“Even small items like gloves, hats, socks or even a bar of soap can make a big difference.”

Items can be handed in to Sainsbury’s stores in Buchanan Galleries, Sauchiehall Street, George Street, Argyle Street near the St Enoch Subway, Trongate, Queen Street and Bothwell Street.

To further support the homeless community, Simon Community Scotland has deployed a rough sleepers street team in Glasgow this winter.

Members of the public are asked to contact them on 0800 027 7466 if they see someone in the city they are concerned about.

The charity works to combat the causes and effects of homelessness and its vision is that everyone should have a safe place to live as well as access to the support they need.