HAIRDRESSING during lockdown for some elderly people is ‘essential for personal care and mental health’, according to one Bolton stylist.

Julie Brooks, a hairdresser who specialises with clients with complex needs, has been told she is unable to carry on with what she calls ‘essential care hairdressing’ this month and is concerned about the toll this will have on many of her elderly clients.

A mobile hairdresser for more than 30 years, Julie has for the last four years run Especially For You, which had regular salons at the Bolton Cares Centre at Thicketford Road, Tonge Moor, the Brazley Centre in Horwich and the Winnifred Kettle Centre in Westhoughton.

She said when it became clear that the November lockdown would mean a second period of no hairdressing allowed, some of her clients cried with frustration.

Julie, who is 54 and lives in Harwood said: “Many people, especially those isolated or with dementia rely on their hairdresser for essential needs and mental health.

“From March 16 to July 4 I didn’t work.

“When that lockdown lifted I was horrified how some clients had deteriorated both in health and mentally.

“Clients’ scalps were needing attention because of lack of shampoo, some clients who took extreme pride in their appearance looked unkempt.

“Getting back into our weekly or fortnightly appointments was like some had won the lottery.

“Three clients hadn’t been out of their flats and were excited to go down the corridor to the salon in their extra living accommodation.

“At all times I wore full PPE, every client had a bag with disposable gown and areas were disinfected .

“When this latest lockdown came in, some clients cried and asked whether I could still go.

“I would say there are around eight clients who I would class as essential as some have no mobility, some are living with dementia and a few who just wouldn’t be able to have their hair washed conveniently.

“As I specialise in complex needs I have the equipment to shampoo their hair.”

Julie has the support of her local councillor, Stuart Halsam, who attempted to clarify whether her service ws classed as ‘essential personal care’.

But Bolton Council’s borough solicitor has checked with public health and been told that Julie is not permitted to operate under the national restrictions.

Julie, added: “This has been upsetting as these people are not classed as essential but certain shops such as picture framing, lighting and jewellers are still open.

“I just see it as a human right to keep your dignity.

“These people have a right and choice and it’s being taken away from them.

“To see people deteriorate is heartbreaking.”