Staffordshire hair and beauty salons being trained to spot domestic abuse
Police are sending officers out to try and save more victims
Police in Staffordshire say hairdressers and beauty salons have a huge role to play in tackling domestic abuse.
The training reminds people of the signs of someone who may be experiencing domestic abuse and advises them on how they could respond in the best way.
In particular, many women tell their hairdressers and beauty therapists things they would not say to anyone else.
Staff working in these environments may notice injuries, changes in a client’s behaviour, or demeanour.
Salons and treatment areas may be seen as a safe and relaxing space for clients and one in which they could reach out for help.
Officers will be approaching local businesses to encourage them to sign up some free online training.
It involves three short videos and takes around 20 minutes. On completion, ‘Behind the Mask’ will send through a certificate which can be printed off and clearly displayed in the salon.
Salons will also receive a handy support book which has useful contact numbers for organisations who offer specialist support that people can be directed to.
Inspector Karen Cooke, who leads on our violence against women and girls intensification week, said: “This training is not about intervening, it’s simply about suggesting the services of those who are specially trained to help in a way that is informed and meaningful.
“A listening ear and a kind word may change or save someone’s life.”
First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.