Harwich Home-start charity creates salon experience for Mother's Day

Home-Start Harwich – a charity that offers family support and parenting services around Harwich and surrounding areas – hosted two salon sessions last week to “celebrate the women who are struggling as parents”.

Wendy Taylor, scheme manager, said the first hairdresser session took place on Tuesday, and a second on Friday – to coincide with Mother’s Day as well as International Women’s Day.

Ms Taylor said that for busy parents who “never have a chance to look after themselves” that it was a particularly great experience with Home-Start’s Hall being transformed with drinks and snacks included.

Nails - Emma Burrells putting some nail gel on one of the women (Image: Submitted)

One of the women, who has six children, said she has not had a haircut since 2017, with Wendy Taylor explaining that due to financial struggles many women “never dream of putting themselves first”.

Hairdresser Kelly Clark worked for free, while magazines were brought in for the women to look through while they had their hair done – making it an enjoyable experience.

Group organiser Emma Burrell also gave nail gels to the mums, making it even more of a treat.

The pre-loved clothing table was another success, with parents going home with new outfits and mums also had ‘me time’ away from their children.

Hairdresser - Kelly Clark (right) prepared and cut the hair of the women (Image: Submitted)

In addition, volunteers put up a divider in the hall, meaning children could play and make Mother’s Day cards with practical help and supplies.

On Friday, Morrisons will be handing flowers and chocolates to the women who attended the session to recognise the contribution they make to their families.

Crafty - A young boy is helped as he makes a Mother's Day card (Image: Submitted)

Home-Start was founded in 1973, with the Harwich branch opening in 1996.