A Liverpool cafe has started a kind-hearted scheme in a bid to provide a boost to anyone in need and make the world a "much happier place".
Fika, on Woolton Road in Wavertree, launched a suspended coffee scheme last year where customers can purchase an extra drink, which will be stored in order to give it to someone else in need.
Whether they are short of cash or are having a bad day, anyone can pick up a post it note off the board and take it to the till to cash in their free drink.
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Owner Anthony Grice said since they started, they have already had 350 drinks purchased and has had an "amazing response".
He told the ECHO : "I set it up a couple of months back and now I'm really trying to push it and encourage other businesses to join in.
"If someone is having a bad day or they are short of cash they can come in and essentially get a coffee for free. The drink has already been purchased by another customer who buys one for the board and they are encouraged to write an inspirational message on a post-it note.
"People can come in and take a note off the board and bring it to the till. This way customers are supporting independent businesses.
"Times are tough at the moment and this scheme allows people to do something for those struggling. The person taking the coffee also benefits so it's a win win for everyone."
The shop, which hopes to open a second store in Liverpool later this year, aims to bring people together and spread joy.
Anthony added: "A lot of people come in after seeing the sign but also we have people coming in who meet new people and have a chat, it makes the world a friendlier and happier place, especially if anyone is struggling, and that's what the shop is about.
"It's for anyone who is feeling lonely they can come in and be under no obligation to buy a coffee. The average price for a coffee is about £2.50, which may not be much to some people, but for others it can be a lot of money.
"We always encourage people to talk to each other and we also hold a free tea and toast morning for the older customers which gives them incentive to get up in the morning."
Anthony said the need for support for independent businesses is stronger than ever.
He said: "People are struggling out there.
"I would urge people to support independent businesses, franchises make so much money, they don't care about local people, but independent businesses give character to the community, it's their life blood and they live and breathe the city.
"It makes the world a much happier place."
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