A MIDDLESBROUGH salon is offering free haircuts to the homeless.

Middlesbrough's Helping Hands have joined forces with the Skins and Needles Academy to offer free haircuts, podiatry and chiropody, and other support to those who find themselves homeless or in need.

A ‘Christmas Cut' event takes place at the Skins & Needles Academy on Linthorpe Road on Sunday, December 19 between 11am and 3pm, no appointment is necessary.

Skilled barbers and chiropodists are in attendance to provide needed help to some of Middlesbrough's residents.

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Free haircuts are also available at the Academy every day of the week for people in need.

Those who attend are offered a free haircut, support for their feet, hot drinks, food, and advice services. There is also a clothing bank on site for those who need it.

Michael Harvey, from Helping Hands, said: "The events in October and November have been better and better.

"We were able to see good repeat customers, which was fantastic.

The Northern Echo: The team from Helping Hands and Skins & Needles Academy get to work on free haircuts and more at last month's event on Sunday, November 28The team from Helping Hands and Skins & Needles Academy get to work on free haircuts and more at last month's event on Sunday, November 28

"Clearly, people told their friends, which was great for us as it means we are cutting deeper into the community.

"People were very receptive. Some people only wanted to get their haircut, some wanted help and advice of other services. It was really good to see such a varied crowd.

"We're really looking forward to the next one on December 19 to see what it brings!"

Jolande Mace, from Middlesbrough Council, whose team provides support to the event, added: "A member of my team always attends the event to provide support where needed.

The Northern Echo: The team from Helping Hands and Skins & Needles Academy get to work on free haircuts and more at last month's event on Sunday, November 28The team from Helping Hands and Skins & Needles Academy get to work on free haircuts and more at last month's event on Sunday, November 28

"We help to bring awareness amongst our communities and to help out as much as we can during the event itself.

"I am so pleased to see events such as these being developed in the town, as they really showcase the community spirit and desire people have to help those most in need."

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