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About us

Welcome to Wambles of Wales, a Cardiff-based charity founded by the inspiring Paul, who transformed personal adversity into a mission for environmental and social change.


What began as a simple litter-picking initiative led by people experiencing homelessness has grown into a community movement dedicated to improving local environments, supporting vulnerable individuals, and bringing people together through positive action.

Our Story

Before the pandemic, Paul enjoyed a successful career as a personal trainer and sports therapist. Like many people, however, the challenges of COVID-19 turned his life upside down, and he found himself homeless on the streets of Cardiff. Despite these difficult circumstances, Paul refused to give up. Every day, regardless of the weather, he could be found picking up litter in the city's streets and green spaces, spreading positivity and encouraging others to take pride in their community.

His dedication quickly attracted attention. Local residents began supporting his efforts through donations, and Paul would thank them with a hand-picked pinecone and a heartfelt hug. This simple gesture earned him the affectionate nickname "Pinecone Paul."

Today, that same passion and determination has evolved into Wambles of Wales, a small charity registered via Cardiff Third Sector Council (C3SC) that not only helps keep communities clean but also provides purpose, friendship, and opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, individuals with disabilities, ex-forces members, and others who may feel isolated or overlooked.

Our Mission

At Wambles of Wales, we believe that everyone can make a difference. Our goals are simple but powerful:

  1. Improve the environment, protect natural spaces, and spread positivity through regular litter-picking activities.
  2. Create a sense of purpose, belonging, and community for all participants.
  3. Challenge the stigma surrounding homelessness, disability, and social exclusion by promoting positive action and visibility.
  4. Support other environmental groups, charities, and community initiatives wherever possible.
  5. Ensure that every penny donated is used to support our work, including meals for people experiencing homelessness, litter-picking equipment, volunteer T-shirts, and resources that help us expand our environmental projects and volunteering opportunities.

Making a Difference

Paul's commitment continues to inspire those around him. Recently, he completed an incredible 100-mile walk from Barry to Bristol and back, raising funds for the charity, collecting over 100 bags of litter, and spreading more than 1,000 smiles along the way.

Join Us

Every piece of litter collected, every volunteer who joins us, and every donation received helps create a cleaner, kinder, and more inclusive community.

Join us in making a difference, one piece of litter at a time.

Make a donation

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