Hairdressing Students Helping to cut out Domestic Abuse

HAIRDRESSING apprentices and salon owners in Tameside are receiving training who how to spot signs of domestic abuse and support people to get help.

The project is part of the Cut it Out campaign, being delivered by Tameside Council working with the Bridges Partnership – which delivers domestic abuse support - and Tameside College.

Approximately 27 apprentices and 23 salon owners attended the latest training session at Tameside College on Monday 12 February. To date, over 300 students and 45 salon owners in Tameside have received the training as part of the campaign.

The Cut it Out campaign is a national initiative that was first launched in Norfolk following the death of Kerri McAuley, who was killed in 2017 by her abusive partner. Before her death, Kerry had disclosed to her hairdresser that she was the victim of abuse and reached out for support, but the seriousness wasn’t realised.

The Cut it Out campaign recognises that a hairdresser, barber or beauty therapist is in a position of privilege with their client and they are often someone trusted to talk to or confide in.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Public Health Cllr Taf Sharif said: “Domestic abuse is a concern that affects us all. With one in four women and one in six men experiencing domestic abuse at some point in their life; it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. Often hairdressers, barbers, beauticians and tattooists have a trusted relationship with their clients - they are in a UNIQUE position to spot injuries, changes in behaviours, ask questions about someone’s home life and relationship and to listen when someone opens up. 

“We’ve already seen the impact of this approach locally – last year a woman confided in her hairdresser after she saw one of our domestic abuse awareness posters on display in the salon and she was referred for help. It’s crucial that we continue to equip salons and other community-facing businesses with the knowledge and tools to spot the signs, ask the right questions, and connect people with the appropriate support services. Together, we can make a real difference in tackling domestic abuse in our community."

For further information on local support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse see www.bridgespartnership.org.uk