Importance of hairdressers in the community

[KGVID width=”400″ height=”237″]https://respectyou.me/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/InTheirWords_Instagram-Story.m4v[/KGVID]

Back to back clients, tending to untamed tresses and above all ensuring each and every client leaves the salon with a smile on their face. It’s a tough gig this hairdressing lark but hey, someone’s got to do it. And at the end of a hard day, you should be leaving the salon with a bounce in your step too. For has it ever struck you that a hairdresser’s job extends far beyond creating beautiful hair. When a client sits in your chair, not only are you transforming their style on the outside but also making them feel great on the inside too.

Haircuts 4 Homeless

One man, who knows how to use his craft to create the feel-good factor is our Respectfully podcast star Stewart Roberts. Founder of Haircuts 4 Homeless (which pretty much does what it says on the tin), Stewart gave up his salon in December to focus on his charity work. Since starting in November 2014, the charity has grown exponentially – it now has more than 300 volunteers and has completed more than 35,000 haircuts for the homeless. Listen to the podcast HERE.

Of course, we’re not suggesting you all shut up shop and head on to the streets, just simply be mindful that you could be aiding your client’s mental health, just by listening. How awesome is that?! Hairdressers really do play a unique and important role within the community.

Prince William recognises industry’s unique position

Even Prince William is onboard with recognising our industry’s part in improving mental health. Only a few weeks ago he met with barber group and mental health campaigners, The Lions Barber Collective. This unique band of brothers (and sisters) have come together to raise awareness of mental health problems for the prevention of suicide in young males. 

Sadly, suicide is still the biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the UK. Speaking on the subject of mental health the Duke of Cambridge was reported as saying there was still “a long way to go” in the UK, but that things are “changing”.  The Duke said it was important that men feel they have somebody who listens to their concerns, and compared mental health issues with physical illness.

Making a difference

Barber Ken Hermes from Essex lost his father to suicide ten years ago and is passionate about providing men with a place to talk and open up about their feelings. “Losing my dad to suicide at 15 left an empty place in my heart,” he says. “If only my dad could have spoken to someone about how he felt. Maybe he would still be here? I want to help educate others to spot the signs of need, and start the conversations that change lives. Working for a large barbering group means that I can pass this education to 100+ barbers and really make a difference in our communities.”

The message is clear. Get to know your clients and touch their lives. You have no idea what a difference you could be making. 

P.S. The Hairdressers Charity

On the topic of giving back to the community. The Hairdressers Charity – the official industry charity dedicated solely to helping hairdressing professionals and ex-hairdressers in the UK in their hour of need – had its annual ball last week. What a fabulous night and what’s more the event raised more than £5000. Check out more HERE.

For the latest industry news, collections and education, click HERE.

________________________________

Respect is a hub for UK hairdressers of all ages and stages to find out what We Love, We Hear and We Seeas the best product launches, styling advice, hairtools, education training and seminars and hairshows! Sign up to our newsletter which is sent fortnightly direct to your email, so you stay up-to-date with salon styling information, trends in session work, advice on presenting on stage or progress in educating – whatever your interest, whether you’re a trainee or creative director, an educator or team leader, you’ll find all the opportunities and ideas on www.respectyou.me