Refugee barber changes lives with mobile haircuts

Mike Vorobets started his mobile van business after fleeing Ukraine, offering haircuts and a listening ear on the Yorkshire coast

A barber who fled the war in Ukraine has helped to change lives by running a mobile hairdressing service and offering a listening ear.

Mike Vorobets fitted out his van as a travelling salon and gives free cuts to those in need, as well as visiting areas of Scarborough where people might struggle to get to a barber's.

He has become popular with his customers for supporting them with their mental health challenges.

Mr Vorobets said: "Lots of people around the world have helped Ukrainians and I think if I can help with good haircuts, I feel very good."

Back in Ukraine, Mr Vorobets ran a successful barbering business but was forced to move, along with his four children, to Scarborough when war broke out.

He wanted to use his skills to start a new life for himself and help his community, so kitted the van out with a TV and games console to entertain children.

"I know kids often don't like the barbers with the seats and the noise so I thought I want to make something special where they can sit and play, meaning the children are happy, parents are happy and I'm happy," he said.

John Edward (pictured on left) is among the customers who've been grateful for Mr Vorobets' support

As well as his usual rounds, Mr Vorobets regularly calls at The Rainbow Centre in Scarborough, which works with vulnerable people, including those with additional needs.

"If I can help these people who have complicated lives, by cutting the price and making their lives easier with a new style, it feels nice.

"Money is not everything in this life and when you help people, you feel like you can do everything in this world, the feeling is amazing," he added.

Regular customer John Edward said he enjoyed having a "good chat" with the barber when he was feeling lonely.

"I suffer from anxiety and don't get out much to integrate with people, but it's nice when Mike comes to see me," he said.

"It's hard for some people to go to a barber shop in town - people with disabilities and children and with anxiety issues like me but this is an incredible idea where he can come to the home."

Mr Vorobets said he hoped to open a training school for barbers by the end of the year and set up 10 more mobile salons in other areas of Yorkshire.

"I like being able to make people change in front of my eyes, making them stronger, more beautiful and happier," he said.

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.