THE FACES

What would Craig Henderson do?

Not every guest finds the salon environment welcoming. Here’s how Craig – AKA the Neuro-Divergent Barber – ensures all clients feel comfortable getting a haircut

My son struggles with Sensory Processing Disorder, and we battled, making small changes to help him during his haircut. This opened my eyes to the struggles so many parents and caregivers face daily with neuro diversity.

I’ve become increasingly aware that the Additional Needs Community is often marginalised by many high street hair and barber salons, as the timings and individual requirements do not conform to many mainstream business models. We all know time equals money, but my profit is the sense of achievement. When working in specialist division schools, I might cut hair lying on the floor or run around performing the cut. We are trained to cut hair; who said it needs to be done in the chair?

You need to think of the sensory explosion that greets someone with additional needs when they enter your barber shop or salon. To anybody from the Additional Needs Community, it’s like a grenade going off!

At Craig’s Barbershop, I offer a bespoke service tailored to suit the specific special needs of each client, introducing a thoughtful approach to every sensory aspect of the experience. This involves getting clients comfortable with the equipment, the noises, the vibrations, not to mention the stranger coming towards them with a pair of scissors! This potential sensory overload is often best avoided by giving the most precious gift of all – time. I recommend an in-depth consultation with the parents or caregiver to learn about previous experiences and triggers and give yourself more time to work with this type of clientele. Yes, there are bad days. I’ve been thumped by a teenager and had three ribs cracked, but not reacting (I know that’s difficult!) and having resilience to keep going is vital.

Our core values guarantee all clients an inclusive, non-judgemental safe space. We’re a gender neutral and neuro-diverse friendly salon, making Craig’s Barbershop a haven for all, not just in our community but to all of those clients who need extra thought, care and understanding. I’m now dedicated to providing personal grooming advice and services within the salon and specialist education establishments for children and adults with many neuro diversities and disabilities. I’m also starting a workshop to share my knowledge.

WHAT MADE ME

SIOBHÁN JONES

SIOBHÁN JONES STUDIO @siobhanjoneshair

“The salon is your stage” were the words uttered to me when I was 16, working as a Saturday girl while studying theatre. I realised then that the two industries drew so many parallels. Unsurprisingly, many people in the hair industry are interested in performance and the arts.That was when I knew it was more than just a Saturday job.

I worked hard, built a busy column and grew obsessed with tones, palettes and colour. I loved the idea of sharing knowledge, but at the time, my confidence was lacking, and I struggled to see my full potential. I believe that often, when you get too comfortable, life shakes you to your core and pushes you in a different direction. I went to work and experienced pain running through my hand, wrist, arm and back like no other.The doctors said I had RSI and were unsure If I could continue to do the job I loved in the same capacity.

So I took the leap. I became the best educator I could be. By stepping into my true passion, I unlocked so many opportunities. I get to travel the world, meet people, and have created a perfect balance of creating and sharing. I aim to assist others to achieve the same balance by boosting their confidence so they can reach their full potential.