The Thames Valley Police & Crime Commissioner's Violence Reduction unit has launched a new campaign supported by world famous stylist Nicky Clarke. The Cut It Out campaign intends to raise awareness of domestic abuse across the hair and beauty industry.
The Thames Valley Violence Reduction Unit has developed a new training package for students in the industry to help them spot the signs of abuse and to ensure they know how to support victims and seek further help.
The campaign was launched in Oxford on Tuesday 20th April at Activate Learning's Oxford campus. Nicky Clarke joined the launch event and spoke to students and staff about how the training is being delivered.
It is estimated that one in four women and one in six men experiencing some form of domestic abuse during their life. The Cut It Out campaign was first launched in Norfolk following the death of Kerri McAuley, who was killed in 2017 by her abusive partner. Before her death, Kerri had disclosed to her hair-dresser that she was the victim of abuse and reached out for support, but the seriousness wasn’t realised.
Hair-dressers, barbers and beauty therapists are often in a position of privilege with their client, not only working physically close to them but also very often, they are someone trusted to talk to or confide in. The Cut It Out campaign recognises this unit opportunity to spot the signs of abuse and to intervene early.
The training package, first developed with Milton Keynes College is available for anyone to access on Activate Learning's website.
The training covers different forms of abuse, not just physical, but emotional, financial and controlling behaviours. It provides advice on how to encourage someone to make a report, escape abuse and signposts to leading support organisations.
Matthew Barber said:
“This is a great opportunity to identify those at risk from domestic abuse. Helping those in the hair and beauty industry - and other industries - to spot the signs of abuse and making everyone aware of where they can report concerns will help to keep people safe, and ultimately I hope save lives.
“The campaign is another great example of how the Violence Reduction Unit is working in partnership with others to help tackle issue of violence and abuse across society.”
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are worried about someone who may be, you can contact Thames Valley Police. If there is an emergency that’s ongoing or life is in danger call 999 immediately. If you cannot speak, call 999 and dial 55. In a non-emergency case and for general advice call 101. Further information is available on the Thames Valley Police website.
Victims First for residents of the Thames Valley: 0300 1234 148 or via online chat
