News Apprentice hairdressers trained to spot signs of domestic abuse
Maidstone Borough Council Community Protection Team and Clarion Housing group’s Domestic Abuse Service delivered seven Domestic Abuse Awareness sessions to approximately 100 students at the Saks Hair Academy in Earl Street during October.
They provided the students with information on identifying the signs of domestic abuse and how to support anyone who might be at risk or currently suffering domestic abuse and where they can get information and assistance.
Steve Noble, Community Protection Officer who delivered the training explained the idea behind the initiative, he said:
“Sadly we know there will be an increase in the number of people at risk of domestic abuse as we head into another lockdown. It can be very difficult to reach victims who may be trapped inside their home with no escape from an abusive or emotionally controlling partner. For some, the only escape might be a trip to the hairdressers. This initiative trains hairdressers on the signs to look out for and how to assist potential victims.“During the training there were some lively discussions amongst an enthusiastic and attentive collection of students. Saks have asked that we make this a yearly thing as well delivering other training which is great news.”
Nicola Aviolet, Academy Manager at Saks Academy Maidstone said:
“This week was a fantastic opportunity to be able to raise awareness of key topics amongst our learners. It’s great to be partnered up with the local council and be able to offer these sessions to Saks apprentices and we look forward to having the Community Protection team back again soon.”
The training was part of a statutory commitment under the Safer Maidstone Partnership’s Domestic Abuse Forum in conjunction with professional partners.
Please see below contact details for anyone suffering domestic abuse.
If you are in danger please call 999 immediately or 101 for non-emergencies.
There are certain things that victims can do if they find themselves in a dangerous or unsafe incident for example ‘The Silent Solution’- if a victim calls 999 from their mobile phone but is unable to speak as the perpetrator is nearby, dial 55 and the operator will direct your call to the police rather than terminating it.
Kent Integrated Domestic Abuse service: 0808 168 9111 (covers Kent)
Choices Domestic Abuse Services: 0800 917 9948 (covers Medway)
National Domestic Violence Helpline – 0808 2000 247
The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors – 0808 801 0327
The Mix, free information and support for under 25s in the UK – 0808 808 4994
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428
ENDS