Salon is a cut above for dementia patients
An innovative salon in Wishaw’s hospital has been recognised for its cutting edge care for patients.
University Hospital Wishaw has been named as a finalist in the Best Hospital Care Initiative category at Scotland’s Dementia Awards for its Styles and Smiles project.
The salon opened in April to offer patients free hair styling and barbering services after NHS Lanarkshire acted on feedback they were embarrassed about their hair on the wards.
And chief nurse at the hospital Anne Leith (below) feels the project has gone a long way to boost patients’ spirits.
She said: “The salon was launched after patients told porters they were embarrassed about their hair.
“We are delighted with the impact it has had on our patients.
“We have regular patients attending and they look forward to going to the salon.
“The salon supports people with dementia to maintain community participation, allowing individuals who have a hairdressing routine to maintain this while in hospital.
“We have noticed an increase in the patients’ mood. They are excited and they have fed back that they enjoy their families seeing their new hairstyles.
“One patient commented she felt instantly better after having her hair done.
“The social interaction within the salon is fabulous and has a positive impact on patients.”
Established through a partnership between NHS Lanarkshire, Serco, Summit Healthcare and New College Lanarkshire, the salon features two height-adjustable back-wash sinks, three hairstyling chairs, an overhead hood dryer and a seating area.
More than 300 treatments have already been carried out by Commercial Hairdressing or Barbering and Male Grooming students from the College’s Motherwell Campus.
The salon is normally open three days a week during term-time – but dedicated lecturers and students have been volunteering their time one day a week over the summer.
Two hairdressing lecturers from New College Lanarkshire, Jackie Mcmahon and Jacqui Ward, have been involved in the project from the outset.
Jacqui Ward said: “It’s extraordinary to see the faces of the patients after they’ve had their hair done. Being on a ward, you don’t have the opportunity to make yourself feel good.
“We’ve been really busy and some days we’ve even had queues. It’s hard work but it’s so rewarding.”
Jackie Mcmahon added: “Our students have been fab – they’re so committed. Their confidence has been boosted but their skills have improved massively.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with different people – and for a career in hairdressing, those communication and people skills are vital.”
The hospital will find out if they’ve won at the award ceremony on Wednesday, September 18 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow.
We are delighted with the impact it has had on our patients. One patient commented she felt instantly better after having her hair done.