Vale of Glamorgan’s hair and beauty industry to help tackle domestic abuse

Hair salons, barbers and beauticians across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan have been asked for their support to help tackle domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Around 650 businesses across the region will be receiving information and resources this month to help raise awareness of the issue and enable them to signpost any clients needing help to local and national specialist support providers.

The consequences of domestic abuse and sexual violence can be far reaching and have a serious impact on all aspects of victims’ lives so this initiative aims to ensure that everyone experiencing abuse – women, men and children, are supported.

The resource pack signposts businesses to schemes such as Welsh Women’s Aid ‘Ask Me Ambassador’ scheme and free Welsh Government training online that can help people spot the signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Hair and beauty practitioners are also being encouraged to become White Ribbon Champions or Ambassadors in support of the worldwide movement started by men committed to ending male violence against women.

The information packs are part of a wider campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Through to mid-March, all bus tickets for companies that operate across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan will carry advertising for Live Fear Free, the national domestic abuse and sexual violence helpline.

Cllr Ben Gray, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health said: “We know that hairdressers, barbers, and other beauty industry practitioners regularly hear about their client’s home-life.

“We hope that circulating these resources will help people in these roles to identify victims of abuse and violence against women and empower them to direct victims towards help and support.

“The initial reaction that a victim receives after opening up about their experiences can determine their approach to seeking help.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence against women, domestic abuse or sexual violence you can seek help and support from the Live Fear Free service:

@LiveFearFree

Phone: 0808 80 10 800

Text: 0786 007 7333

Email: info@livefearfreehelpline.wales

Live chat: gov.wales/livefearfree

If you are a local business who would like to receive an information pack, please email: jagrady@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk