Free haircuts project aims to inspire other stylists

A hair stylist from Ringwood is hoping to inspire other hairdressers across the country to offer free haircuts.

A few years ago, Georgia Chappels found herself in a 'financial crisis' after going through a divorce. She relied on foodbanks and charities to support her family.

Now she runs the Community Haircuts project in Hampshire - offering a free, drop-in service with no questions asked.

She says: "I can't give back monetary value into the community, but I can give back my time."

Chappels and other stylists from the area have run the project for a year, from several venues across Hampshire and Dorset.

She hopes that it will help anyone struggling while the cost of living continues to rise.

"People are making ends meet", she said.

"The mum might work two jobs, the dad works full time. Yes, they've got a mortgage. Yes, they've got a car.

"But the bills and everything after everything's gone - there's no money for luxuries such as a haircut."

And it isn't just for parents and their children - the service is for everyone and has been used by students and elderly members of the community too.

Barber Thomas Perriman only recently started his career but has decided to give up some of his time to help out.

He said: "It's so important to give back when you've maybe gone through stuff yourself.

"Everyone in the community deserves to get their hair cut in an environment which, for whatever reason, they might not be able to get to normally."

Likewise, Chappels still works in a salon four days a week, alongside the Community Haircut events held regularly.

While they do not have the same facilities or products that may be used in a salon, the team aims to make it feel as luxury as possible.

Events are advertised on their Facebook page and Chappels hopes to spread the word so other hair stylists offer their time to offer a similar service.

"I would love to inspire other hairdressers up and down the country to maybe roll it out in their local community. It takes a couple of hours a month.

"The difference a haircut can make is it makes you feel like you again. It's more than just a haircut."