A BARBER in Wroughton is offering free haircuts to Ukraine refugees and people in nearby care homes.
After moving to the village in the Swindon borough from Istanbul four years ago, Ugur Dertlicoban has enjoyed working in his new home and raising his two daughters and son.
When Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership chair Mike Bowden was in his chair earlier this week, Ugur suggested a generous idea.
Mike said: “I was sitting having my hair cut and a wet shave, minding my own business, when Ugur told me he wanted offer some for free to people from the area and fleeing the bombing in Ukraine.
“It’s such a kind and generous offer, and reminds us that if we were all to do a little bit to help others, the world would be better off.”
Mr Dertlicoban visited the Orchards Residential Home to let them know of his offer.
He said: “I really enjoy living in the Wroughton area and just want to put a little bit back into my local community.
“Swindon is my home and has been very good to me and my family. My three children have all been fortunate to attend excellent schools in the town and have many lovely friends.
“We all enjoy the many parks and green spaces that make living in Swindon such a pleasure “
Mike has been asking other care homes to see if any elderly men who live there would like a free trim, and has mentioned the kind gesture to the refugees he helps support with donated goods in the Carriage Works.
He added: “We are a humanitarian charity so we are trying to help others in the area as well as those from Ukraine.
“The Orchards staff were keen on the idea and it’s within walking distance – or Ugur can go to them.
“He’s a great barber, people in the area know him and he’s always been community-minded.”
The Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership helps collect and deliver donated essentials to the Ukraine border as well as help refugees who have fled the war-torn country settle in Swindon.
The charity has a large unit in the historic Carriage Works to store donated clothes, furniture, hygiene products, toys and pet food.
Formed shortly after the conflict began, the committee has spent more than 100 days sending more than 550 tonnes of aid to Ukraine,
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