Trim 'n' Grin is more than just a free haircut—it’s a safe space and serves as an environment for open conversations about mental health and well-being. Through this initiative, school-age young people receive not only a fresh new haircut but also a boost in confidence and access to valuable support networks.

Our Trim 'n' Grin engagement sessions run during half-terms and summer holidays in Croydon and Merton. Recently, we held sessions in partnership with Barber Krish at Pollards Hill Youth Club and Phipps Bridge Youth Club.

The Power of a Trim

A haircut may seem like a small thing, but it carries a significant impact. When young people walk into a Trim 'n' Grin event, they are welcomed into a positive and uplifting environment where barbers do more than cut hair—they listen, engage, and support. The simple act of sitting in a barber’s chair becomes an opportunity for open conversations about mental health, self-esteem, and the challenges young people face.

Collaboration for Young People’s Wellbeing

Trim 'n' Grin wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration between dedicated barbers and community partners. Our work in barbershops began in 2015 with the pilot project “Mind My Hair, Hear My Mind”. Since then, we have built strong partnerships with local barbers, particularly working in collaboration with the BAME Barbers Network, to continue fostering these meaningful conversations and provide essential resources.

Over the years, some of our collaborations have expanded beyond Trim 'N' Grin events to include initiatives such as:

• Training in mental health and active listening for barbers, equipping them with the skills to support their clients.
• Blood pressure testing, helping to raise awareness about physical health within the community.
• Workshops in pupil referral units (PRUs), offering young people guidance and practical tools for managing their wellbeing.

A Caring Community

Each event is a testament to the power of community-driven change. Young people leave not just with a fresh cut, but with the knowledge that they are seen, heard, and supported. The bonds formed in barbershops create a ripple effect, encouraging open conversations about mental health in spaces where young people feel comfortable and valued.