'Hairdressers can help people who are struggling - especially as lockdown eases'
More than 400 hairdressers have now undertaken mental health training during the pandemic - and this week started putting their new skills to good use.
Last updated 14th Apr 2021
In 2015 a Torquay-based barber started the Lions Barber Collective in honour of a friend who died.
The group helps to raise awareness of mental illness and aims to prevent suicide by 'creating training that enables barbers to recognise, talk and listen out for symptoms of depression'.
Founder Tom Chapman says the training is even more important as lockdown is eased and hairdressers come into contact with those who've been alone for months.
He said: “When we opened up again in July (2020), I cut a friend's hair, he seemed fine when we had the consultation but once I started cutting his hair he started to cry.
"I stopped and asked him if there was something he’d like to speak to me about. His reply shocked me. He lived alone and this was the first human contact he had had in months.
"This made me determined to ensure that others in his position have someone they can talk to when barbers reopen in April.
Tom's TED talk
“A barber can see up to 200 people a week, especially at busy times like the end of lockdown.
"The hair and beauty industries reach is just phenomenal so we were keen to harness this to support people right across the UK at this time.”
Tom took part in a documentary called the '£1.7 million haircut'
To find out more about the Lions Barber Collective visit www.thelionsbarbercollective.com