Mental health support from hair stylists

HAIRDRESSERS, barbers and beauty professionals are being trained in Derbyshire to support their customers’ mental health.

It’s recognised that clients can often open up to hair stylists about their feelings and state of mind when they might not want to confide in family, friends or colleagues.

The first free four-hour training session for stylists and beauticians based in Derbyshire, excluding the city of Derby, takes place on Zoom, booking through Eventbrite, on Monday, October 4. Five more will be scheduled.

The sessions will be delivered by The Lions Barber Collective, an international group of top barbers who have come together to help raise awareness on suicide prevention.

Councillor Carol Hart, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, said: “Barbers and hairdressers are in a unique position to have conversations with customers, and they have the ability to hold positive conversations around mental health. The frequency of people having their hair cut and the relative anonymity of the relationship can break down barriers to enable open and frank conversations.

“These conversations already happen informally on a regular basis. This training boost professionals’ skills, knowledge and confidence and enables them to provide even more positive support.”