Kind-hearted staff and students in Inverness have a regular appointment – to give free haircuts at a homeless drop-in.
Members of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) hairdressing department at Inverness College have been providing the service to the vulnerable.
The regular pop-up salon has been taking place at Inverness Foodstuff, which operates every Tuesday and Thursday out of the Ness Bank Church Hall.
The community-drop in facility offers people a hot nutritious meal as well as support and advice for those suffering from homelessness, food poverty and social isolation.
The partnership between Inverness College and Inverness Foodstuff was orchestrated by hairdressing lecturer Roz Bullard, with staff and students attending on a monthly basis to offer free haircuts.
Roz Bullard said: “If you are struggling to make ends meet, a haircut is the least of your priorities, but it’s amazing what a difference a new haircut can make to how you feel.
“The feedback from people who use the drop-in centre has been phenomenal, they’ve really embraced the service we have offered and look forward to us coming in. We’re also really delighted to be giving something back to the community.”
Agnes Fraser, volunteer manager with Inverness Foodstuff, said: “Inverness Foodstuff and the participants have benefited from the enthusiasm and talent of the hairdressing team.
“It’s not just about cutting hair, it’s about being treated with dignity and respect, making people feel better and enjoying the pampering. Our participants were delighted with the results of their ‘make-over’ and whilst they were cautious initially they now ask when the girls are coming in.”