Yesterday, (26 February), hairdressers and barbers in Longton worked together to provide people in need with free haircuts, organised by the Salvation Army charity shop.

From 10am until 4pm, Kadycutz and Caroline Street Hair and Beauty worked at the Ping Pong Parlour in Longton, giving out free haircuts to struggling families and those affected by homelessness.

Kadycutz and Caroline Street Hair and Beauty worked together to provide those in need with free haircuts (Sarah Garner).

Kerry Shenton, manager of the Salvation Army charity shop, organised the event after she asked some of the homeless people she works with what she can do to help.

Kerry said: "I had a chat with some of the homeless and asked them, other than food and water, what they needed. Their answer was that they can't just walk into a hairdressers and barbers to have a haircut, so I said I would sort that out for them.

"I got hugs and tears and a few said that everyone is struggling at this time so could I sort it for anyone who needs a haircut to be offered one."

Salvation Army charity shop, Longton (Sarah Garner).

Penny Doyle-Johnson, owner of Caroline Street Hair and Beauty, said: "I'm taking part today because I understand how something like a haircut can really make people feel better about their situation.

"For families who are struggling with the cost of living it might be that there are more important things to pay for than a hair cut - the gas bill and a food shop doesn't make you feel good, but its top priority over the luxuries.

"We're hoping to make people feel better with this little treat and perhaps give them a bit of time out from their worries and just concentrate on them for half an hour."

Food parcels were also given out thanks to donations from Baguettes and Pies and Heron Foods donated hair products including shampoo and conditioner.

Kady, owner of Kadycutz, Longton, gave his time to help those in need (Kerry Shenton).

Kady, owner of Kadycutz, said: "I think it's about giving back to the community. I'm grateful for everyone who's come here today and given me the opportunity to let me help them.

"The greatest joy for me is bringing a smile to someone in need."

Around 50 people received free haircuts yesterday, and Kerry said the feedback was amazing and it was emotional watching everyone leave with smiles on their faces.

The event took place at Ping Pong Parlour, Longton Exchange (Sarah Garner).

One customer, Rose Davies, said: "This was amazing! Thank you all so much. I haven't let a hairdresser near my hair for years and the ladies were brilliant, so respectful and I loved having that little pamper."

To find out more about Kerry's work, visit the Salvation Army charity shop Facebook page.

READ MORE: Stoke charity opens food pantry to support people impacted by homelessness

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