“The Smile at the End of the Haircut Is So Worth It”
#CompassionateCuts #GivingBack #HaircutsForAll #CommunitySupport #NorthDown #KindnessMatters
A Newtownards hairdresser is making a real difference in the community by providing affordable and free haircuts to those in need, along with essential hygiene kits.
Tammy McCrum, founder of Compassionate Cuts, launched the initiative in October 2024 to help people facing illness, disability, or financial hardship. In January 2025, she expanded the project to offer sponsored haircuts and hygiene kits for those in vulnerable circumstances.
“I love being able to give people that non-judgemental time to chat, feel a little better about themselves—and the smile at the end of the haircut is so worth it.”
From Hardship to Helping Others
At 34 years old, Tammy knows firsthand how much a simple haircut can mean. After experiencing homelessness in 2020 and spending eight months in the Simon Community, she received a free haircut that gave her a much-needed confidence boost.
“I can pinpoint that moment so clearly. It didn’t change everything, but it meant so much. Within a couple of days, I got housed, and things started looking up.”
Determined to pay it forward, Tammy retrained as a barber through Belfast Works Connect and launched Compassionate Cuts to make a difference in the lives of others facing difficult times.
Providing More Than Just a Haircut
What started as an effort to make haircuts affordable quickly grew into a larger mission.
“I realized not everyone can even afford a budget-friendly haircut. That’s what started the sponsored haircuts. Then I spoke to the YMCA, and they mentioned that some of their clients couldn’t afford basic hygiene products like razors—that stuck with me. That’s how the hygiene kits started.”
Since February 2025, Tammy has:
✅ Provided over 40 free haircuts
✅ Assembled and distributed 50+ hygiene kits
Now, she’s working closely with local organizations, including YMCA, North Down Community Network, and care homes, to provide free haircuts and hygiene kits to those in need. She’s also in discussions with community foodbanks to expand her outreach.
A Growing Impact in the Community
The impact of Compassionate Cuts is already being felt across North Down. Louise Spence, Manager of North Down Community Network, recently welcomed Tammy to the DICE Project youth club at Whitehill, where five young people received haircuts to boost their confidence.
“Having Tammy here was not just about haircuts; it was about building connections and fostering a spirit of community. When people like Tammy give back, it shows young people that they are valued. It’s truly inspiring.”
Support from Local Businesses & the Public
Tammy’s work has gained widespread support from the community and local businesses.
“Almost every day, I get an Amazon parcel with something from our wishlist to help stock up the hygiene kits. Denman in Bangor has also donated combs and hairbrushes, which is incredible, as they’re one of the most expensive items.”
Future Goals for Compassionate Cuts
Tammy hopes to expand the initiative, reaching even more people in need.
“I want to build more partnerships with organizations that support people in high-need areas. Eventually, I’d love to have a kitted-out van to make it easier to travel and run fundraising events.”
Despite the challenges, Tammy says every person she meets makes the journey worthwhile.
“Every haircut is memorable. I’ve met amazing people and heard incredible stories. Even if they’ve just met me, they trust me with a piece of their story. That’s why I do this—to give people a boost and remind them that they matter.”
How to Support Compassionate Cuts
Want to help Tammy continue her mission? Find out more and support Compassionate Cuts here:
#HaircutsForGood #CommunityBarber #SupportLocal #GivingBack #CompassionateCuts #BarberWithAPurpose
