A PURPLE double-decker bus will soon be making life easier for Maidenhead's homeless.

It is being run from Maidenhead Synagogue and features 12 beds on the top desk, a kitchen, a bathroom and desk.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain has been a key figure in getting the mobile outreach service set up to provide a source of refuge, warmth and hope for those living on the streets.

He said: "Many of the homeless are people who had jobs and homes until recently, but whose lives have now spiralled out of control and into the streets through no fault of their own.

“The bus is part of the synagogue's involvement in the wider community and represents our commitment to social action."

The vehicle is fully roadworthy and will be driven into the town every evening once the new programme begins in the coming weeks.

Members of the synagogue are also becoming involved in the programme, offering to work as drivers and donating items for use within the bus.

They are also fund-raising to pay for a warden to be acting as a first point of contact to those who use the service. The warden will provide advice and supervision to try and help get as many people off the streets and back into work and accommodation as possible.

Maidenhead Synagogue is working alongside several local charities in this project including the Brett Foundation. Founded by Sue Brett in 2014, the charity provides housing essentials and appliances for people in need, as well as children’s uniforms to families who are struggling to afford them. Mrs Brett is also the driving force behind the town’s Open Kitchen, which provides meals to those in need.