Suffolk’s Sensory Studio
Caroline,
founder of Blade Inclusive Salon & Sensory Studio, spoke to BBC Suffolk last week to share the importance of SEN friendly and inclusive services.
They also shared the stories of some of our neurodivergent customers, and how the service has improved their lives.
The article puts a spotlight on families with additional needs, and explores the difficulties they encounter with hair and personal care. Talking to Al Nicoula and his wife, Ramona, about their seven-year-old Alex; who is autistic. They once dreaded a trip to the hairdressers, resulting in "shaking and jerking" whenever he needed a trim and fearing the noisy environment of chatter and dryers.
Sadly, this is a familiar story for so many families, who find that the sensory overwhelm of a traditional salon is too much to bear.
Blade Inclusive Salon is setting a new standard for inclusive haircare, creating an environment that adapts to all needs. From patient and understanding staff, a welcoming environment and fully equipped Sensory Studio with fidget toys, cars, animals, books and projections on the wall; we meet you where you’re at.
Despite moving from Norfolk to Aberdeen in 2022, Alex’s family still make the 530-mile trip to Suffolk four times a year so Alex can have his hair cut at Blade.
"We pop down at Easter, in the summer, in October, and we pop there at Christmas time," says Al, whose son used to be non-verbal.
"It works so well and he's so calm. He actually wants to go there for his haircut, whereas up this way we haven't found anywhere quite as good.
"Other places can be a bit of a fight and battle - but the sensory room at Blade has made a massive difference."
With customers travelling from from Kent, Norwich, Bury St Edmunds, Dartford, King's Lynn and as far as Aberdeen - we are proud to be supporting SEN families across the UK.
The BBC also spoke to two more families who have benefitted from the work we do - from navigating non-verbal appointments and sensory overload, to seeing the confidence and smiles grow, we are so excited to recognise the incredible people behind Blade Inclusive Salon.
Read the full article here.
