A leading mental health charity is signing up barbers in Dover and Deal to help connect with men who need wellbeing support.

South Kent Mind has launched a campaign called Let’s Talk About the Tough Stuff to coincide with National Stress Awareness Month – which runs over April.

Both men and unisex salons in Dover and Deal were sent a campaign pack this week which included posters for barbers to display. The district’s razor kings and grooming lounge supremoes are asked to lend a listening ear to clients and become active ambassadors’ of the charity by signposting clients to South Kent Mind if they need additional support.

Simon Dolby from South Kent Mind said: “It is a fact that the average man is more likely to talk to their barber about what ails them rather than their doctor – so I need salons in Dover and Deal to encourage clients to Talk About the Tough Stuff. Having a conversation about wellbeing can make a massive difference and will be sufficient support for the majority, but if extra help is needed then South Kent Mind is just a phone call away.”

Daniel Baker has worked at Associates Barber Shop in Church Street, Dover for 27 years, he said: “We all need someone to talk to but some men bottle it up. This campaign is a great way to get it off your chest and barbers are here to listen, but if clients need more support then it is great to know South Kent Mind is here to help.”

South Kent Mind delivers a range of free help for adults including it’s popular Coping with Life sessions which teach tips and techniques to chaps to help them self-manage feelings of anxiety.  

Sessions include: understanding anxiety; assertiveness and confidence; healthy sleep; goal setting and problem solving; self-esteem; food and mood.

A copy of the campaign poster for barbers, salons and household windows can be downloaded from South Kent Mind’s website at www.southkentmind.org.uk For mental health and wellbeing support call 01303 250090 or email contact@southkentmind.org.uk 

Complete form to download poster versions