Nelson & Colne College students are a cut above the rest with haircuts for the homeless

We all know a good haircut can make us feel better. But for a homeless person, a good haircut can make you feel like a new person – and change people’s perception of you. 

The Level 2 Barbering students from Nelson & Colne College put their skills to the test by supporting cutting hair at the Church on the Street in Burnley to support their local community. 

The students – including Gabriel Ciorogar, Grace Robinson, Melissa Butterworth, Emily Hartley and Jess McNally, who started the course in September – have been working on their skills, such as consultation, cutting men’s hair and facial hair, beards and moustaches with scissors and clipper work, fades, blending, shampooing and customer service.

Annette Tattersall, their tutor, said:

“They were all keen to volunteer and give back to support people by using the skills they have learnt so far to help others.  

“The event was amazing as a tutor to watch, as they were professional, respectful and a credit to college and the barbering industry.”

ITV Granada Reports visited Church on the Street to meet the students as they provided free haircuts to Burnley’s homeless

The course is designed to help all potential barbers to be current and ready for the industry to either be employed, self-employed or open their own business.

Student Gabriel Ciorogar said:

“We spoke to a number of people who had nowhere to call home. They told us how much they appreciated the haircuts and someone using their skills to help them. I cut the hair of one man who shook my hand and said God bless. The day was incredibly humbling.”

Think you could cut it as the college’s next barbering student? Click here to find out more about Nelson & Colne College’s courses.