Barbers train to talk to men about mental health

Barbers in a Wiltshire town will be trained to talk to customers about their wellbeing in a bid to improve men's mental health.

Swindon Borough Council is asking barbers and men's hairdressers to sign up to its scheme.

It will then provide basic training in how to talk to clients about their mental health as well as information on where they can get more support.

"We recognise the unique and trusting relationships barbers often build with their customers," said Lydia Jordan, a public health practitioner at the council. "This initiative aims to transform those spaces into safe and supportive environment."

She added it will help men and boys "feel comfortable opening up about their emotional wellbeing" while getting their haircut.