In a bid to enhance mental health support within the community, barbers in Swindon have been extended an invitation to participate in a free mental health training program. This initiative aims to empower barbers with the skills and knowledge to better support their customers’ mental well – being.
The training, known as the “Connect 5” programme, is provided by Wiltshire, Bath, and North East Somerset. It is an evidence – based course accredited by the Royal Society of Public Health and delivered by local accredited trainers. As a modular course with up to three sessions available, the number of sessions participants attend depends on their specific roles.
The Connect 5 programme recognizes that barbers, as part of the public – facing workforce, can play a crucial role in mental health support. It focuses on building the confidence, skills, and competencies necessary for barbers to engage in conversations about mental health and well – being. Through this training, barbers will acquire tools to help others enhance their mental resilience and take better care of their own mental health. It emphasizes that one doesn’t need to be a mental health specialist to offer support to those with emotional and mental health issues.
This is not the first time such an initiative has been introduced. Similar programs in other regions have already demonstrated the positive impact of training hair and beauty professionals in mental health support. For example, on the Isle of Wight, a similar training program was arranged to help hairdressers, barbers, and beauticians support their customers’ mental health. These professionals often act as friendly listeners to their clients, and the training helps them improve conversations around mental health, potentially reaching out to those who might not otherwise seek help.
In Swindon, barbershops are not just places for haircuts but also important community hubs. Some local barbershops, like Route 8 Barbers, have already been actively involved in community – serving activities. They offer free home services for the elderly who are sick or homebound, and have won awards for their contributions to the community. By participating in the mental health training, barbers can further expand their role in the community, creating a more supportive environment for their customers.
The free mental health training for Swindon barbers represents a significant step forward in promoting mental well – being within the community. By equipping barbers with the right skills, it is hoped that more people will feel comfortable discussing their mental health issues and taking proactive steps towards better mental health.
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