Residents at one of Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust’s nursing homes are treated to new haircuts in their very own salon.
Hairdresser Jessica Black visits Clifton Lodge Nursing Home in Balmoral Road, Westcliff, every six to eight weeks to offer them a haircut and a natter.
For those who aren’t mobile, Jessica cuts their hair in their rooms before she sees the other residents in the home’s salon, which has two hairdressing chairs and space for wheelchair users.
Clifton Lodge activity co-ordinator Sandie Woolford said: “The residents love having their haircuts and it’s such a joy to be able to take them to the salon for their treat.
“The number of residents who have their hair cut depends. Sometimes it can be as low as ten but we have seen as many as 23 previously.
“I bring them into the salon one at a time so they are able to have one-to-one focus and engagement with Jessica.
“It’s just a nice experience for all involved.”
Jessica said: “I get satisfaction and it is nice to see that I am doing something good.
“Some residents enjoy having their hair done and others are not so sure but I give them reassurance. Facial expressions let me know how that person is feeling during the visit if their communication skills are limited.”
Resident Janet said: “I like it, I love my haircut and I am happy.”
Families can set up a welfare account to pay for their loved ones to have their hair cut and have chiropody treatments.
Clifton Lodge in Balmoral Road, Westcliff, is one of two care homes managed by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) and looks after people with dementia.