Creative Hair Studio & “Behind the Mask” – Standing Against Domestic Abuse
Creative Hair Studio is proud to be part of the UK Hair & Beauty Professionals Against Domestic Abuse.
We have completed the Behind the Mask training, a UK initiative launched in July 2019 that offers
free online guidance to hair and beauty professionals, helping them recognise when someone may be experiencing
domestic abuse and how to respond in a safe, supportive way.
Domestic abuse can take many forms, including:
- Physical abuse
- Psychological or emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Harassment
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
Because it includes such a wide range of behaviours, it is not always easy to spot. Injuries can be hidden under
clothing or make-up, and many people feel unable to tell anyone what is happening to them.
Statistics show that around 1 in 4 women will experience abuse in their lifetime, and on average
two women are killed every week (Office for National Statistics, 2016). For many, a visit to the
hairdresser may be one of the few moments they are away from their abuser, and one of the only chances they have
to speak openly.
Hairdressers often build a unique relationship with their clients. People frequently share things with their stylist
that they may not feel able to say to anyone else. We may notice:
- Unexplained injuries or the after-effects of them
- Changes in behaviour, mood or confidence over time
- Comments or clues that suggest controlling or frightening behaviour at home
Our aim at Creative Hair Studio is to provide a safe, calm and confidential space where clients feel
able to talk, if and when they are ready. It is not about interviewing, pressuring or interfering.
Instead, it is about listening with care and, where appropriate, gently signposting to organisations
that are specially trained to help.
A listening ear and a kind word may change – or even save – a life.
We first discovered Behind the Mask during the coronavirus pandemic, when it became even clearer
how isolated and vulnerable some individuals can feel at home. A survey showed that:
- 100% of over 200 hair and beauty professionals felt it was important to understand the signs of domestic abuse.
- 98% said that a short, online training programme would make it easier to learn how to respond.
In response, beauty therapist Julie Knight developed the Behind the Mask training, which we have now
completed and committed to supporting.
At Creative Hair Studio, we will continue to:
- Raise awareness of the Behind the Mask initiative wherever we can.
- Include this training as part of our team development, so the next generation of Creative stylists are better equipped to recognise the signs of domestic abuse.
- Offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients can feel seen, heard and supported.
For more information about the Behind the Mask project, please visit the official website:
www.behindthemask.online