Publish date: 9 May 2023

Patients in the Stamford Unit were recently treated to a complimentary haircut thanks to our collaboration with Tameside College.

Students studying for a qualification in hairdressing visited the intermediate care facility and held mobile salons across all three floors where patients could enjoy a relaxing hot drink while receiving a complimentary trim.

It follows a recent fundraising drive by the College's students to raise money for new gym equipment and facilities in the garden of the Unit.

Shirley Burt, a patient in the unit said: “I’m really pleased to be offered the opportunity to have a haircut. I usually go to my local community hairdressers, however, because I’ve been in hospital and now in the Stamford Unit, I’ve not had the chance. It’s a great idea.”

Michaela Fenton (pictured) who is currently studying for a qualification in hairdressing explained how she really enjoys days like these, she said: “I’ve really enjoyed the course so far and coming out into the community like today is the part I enjoy the most.”

Michaela is due to complete her course in June and hopes to set up her own salon in the future.

Julie Yarwood, course leader at Tameside College added: “It’s great for our students to get practical experience throughout their course and the additional benefit of this partnership means that patients who potentially haven’t had a haircut for a while can enjoy a complimentary trim.”

Antony Makepeace, Head of Nursing, Adult Services said: “This exciting collaboration came about through a recent discussion with Tameside College and both organisations could see the benefits of this arrangement. The atmosphere in the Stamford Unit was great as many of our patients took up the offer of a free haircut. I am hoping we can do more of these sessions in the future and look forward to working with our local college on more collaborations.”