A mental health initiative has launched in Stevenage to help support young people who may be struggling.
Co-founded by Sarah Todd and Sam Arnold, Chats and Cuts empowers hairdressers and barbers to 'connect, listen and signpost' with young clients during the course of a haircut.
The community initiative is currently based at four hairdressers and barbers - The Cutter, MADE Men, MADE Women and Kenny Arnold.
At each business, Chats and Cuts QR codes are displayed on mirrors, windows and front doors, featuring six support services for children and young people in Hertfordshire, including the suicide prevention charity The OLLIE Foundation.
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Sarah said: "As trusted adults and natural listeners, our Chats and Cuts ambassadors are uniquely positioned to provide an empathetic response. They can give young clients a safe space to talk during their haircuts before confidently signposting to further support."
Sam added: "Haircuts offer a great way for anyone to open up about their feelings because there's minimal eye contact. This often makes conversations easier and that's especially important when it comes to mental wellbeing.
"We believe that the smallest conversations during a haircut can have the biggest impact on a young person's future."
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