Impact of Covid-19 on Barbers in the UK

Sylvester Insta sylvester.barber.king • 30 March 2022
The coronavirus pandemic remains to have a considerable impact on the hair and beauty sector, with several firms trying to adjust to the abrupt changes that have interrupted regular functioning. Revenues have been impacted as well. Because of the regulations, passing transaction possibilities have been curtailed. Also, social distancing and stricter sanitary rules indicate barbers are receiving fewer visitors each day to get time for cleaning. 

According to the business studies in 2020, barbering industry owners suffered an average financial blow of £17,000. One out of every ten players in the sector remained unsuccessful to provide any revenue or returns. Many enterprises in the field are now extremely prone to failures, with most of them possessing no capital base by 2020.

Fortunately, the barbers came up with innovative and effective ways to offer services to their consumers during the epidemic, which is positive. To remain sustainable, barbers have turned to digital services to expand their operations and generate alternative revenue sources. It is a showcase of the barbering industry's ability to sustain interaction with people, from presenting telephonic talks to providing online tutorials.

 

Guidelines followed by Barbers during Covid-19

Take a look at the strategies barbers have used to protect themselves and their clients from covid19 while still keeping their businesses functioning during tough times.

Hygiene of the hands
Hands are important for both styling hair and transmitting the infection from one person to another. As a result, it's more crucial than ever for barbers to clean their hands often during the day, especially when they sneeze or cough, and before and after serving a customer. Having hand sanitizer accessible at workstations allowed them to save time by not having to wash their hands with soap and water.

Social distancing: 
Barbers evolved novel techniques to preserve social distance even in confined areas.

➢ By restricting access to the workplace to keep the number of individuals inside the salon at any given moment to a minimum.
➢ By lowering the number of employees to improve the space between workstations.
➢ By altering the design of the space and eliminating furnishings to encourage social distancing. 
➢ By providing every chair with its own workstation and hairstyling supplies to enhance hygiene. 
Improved ventilation:
The significance of proper ventilation cannot be ignored during pandemics. Due to the usage of hair sprays and other chemicals in hairdressing, natural air is extremely vital at a barbershop. Natural ventilation was increased in barbershops in the United Kingdom by opening doors and windows. Mechanical ventilation assisted in reducing respiratory problems caused by confined and enclosed environments where there was a lack of natural airflow.

What do barbershops in the UK look like during the pandemic?

• Social distancing floor markings and clear plastic screens between chairs to encourage social distancing.
• Customers are served by hairdressers and barbers who are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Electronic payments eliminate the need for actual monetary exchange.
• Compulsory appointment for the purpose of limiting the number of guests.
• Temperature monitoring at the front desk to keep track.
• If at all feasible, virtual consultations.
• There will be no tea, coffee, or magazines available in the salon.
• Staff will wear surgical face masks.​
• When providing services, the staff uses medical grade gloves.
• Aprons and gowns that can be thrown away after serving a client. 
 

Assistance Provided by the UK Government:

Nobody could have predicted the impact of the coronavirus epidemic on daily life, with many barbers feeling under obligation to continue their business and their homes going during this trying period. The UK government has gathered the greatest materials to assist barbers ride out the storm and adapt to the "new normal" in order to help them get through this rough situation.

Everything has been covered by the government, including financial help and psychological aids, as well as counseling on how to optimize services during the epidemic and the proper guidelines and directions to follow.

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme:
During the lockdown, the government provided up to 80% of self-employed professionals' average trade profits. Self-employed professionals who are momentarily unable to run their services or have noticed a decline in visitors as a result of the outbreak will be supported throughout the winter, as per the guarantees of this scheme.

• The Emergency Business Loan Scheme: Bounce Back Loans
During the second Covid-19 lockout, the government granted the Emergency Business Loan Scheme, letting firms to "top up" their loans. If a beauty enterprise has previously received financing from the BBLS, they can add to their current loans if they need more money.

Grants for business locations
The Local Restrictions Support Grant provided grants of up to £3,000 per month to businesses in England who were forced to shut. In addition, local governments would get £1.1 billion in one-time payments worth £20 per person to help them boost companies more generally.

Holidays from mortgage payments:
Entrepreneurs who have borrowed and have been affected by Covid-19 and have not yet taken a mortgage payment holiday will be eligible for a six-month break. Also, a mortgage payment holiday extension is allowed to those who already have initiated a mortgage holiday. 

Without a question, this sector will regain its footing, however, it will take time since formerly successful business structures and procedures will need to adjust. Pricing of the services will need to be strictly managed as the cost rises due to the requirement for more cleaning products and PPE. The barbering sector is full of sharp, sophisticated experts, but a stronger focus on building business skills will be critical for this field, which has historically prioritized technical competence over commercial aptitude in its training. 

This developing barbering industry proved effective in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, and it has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK's post-pandemic economic recovery. After realizing the tremendous job prospects offered by this industry, it is time for the government to help its revival.

By Sylvester (Instagram link below)
by Sylvester Okoli 25 October 2023
Clippers Clippers are very essential barber tool. Anyone looking to become a barber must include clippers in their budget. Clippers work hand in hand with scissors to provide a smooth finish result. We are now in modern times and most clippers used in barbershop are cordless which means you can charge them and use them up to an hour. The price you spend on a clipper depends on you but my advise is to always get the Wahl magic cordless clippers and this comes with most of the guards needed for your haircut  Price £45 to £300
by Sylvester King 8 May 2023
Why are barbers important? Barbers have been an important part of society for centuries and continue to play an important role today. Here are some reasons why barbers are so important: Personal grooming: One of the primary roles of a barber is to help people look and feel their best by providing haircuts and other grooming services such as shaves, beard trims, and hair styling. Community spaces: Barbershops have historically served as important social spaces, where people can gather, socialize, and discuss current events. This is especially true in some cultures and communities where barbershops are seen as important gathering places. Skill and expertise: Barbers are highly skilled professionals who have undergone specialized training and education to learn their craft. They have the knowledge and expertise to provide high-quality haircuts and grooming services. Traditional services: Many barbers also offer traditional services such as hot towel shaves and straight razor shaves, which can be difficult to find elsewhere. Health and hygiene: Barbers play an important role in maintaining good health and hygiene by keeping their equipment clean and sanitized and by promoting good hygiene practices among their clients. Overall, barbers are important because they help people look and feel their best, provide a sense of community and tradition, and play an important role in maintaining good health and hygiene. Who invented barbering? It is difficult to pinpoint a specific individual who invented barbering, as hair cutting and grooming have been practiced by various cultures throughout history. However, it is known that the profession of barbering dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of barbering found in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman societies. In medieval times, barbers were not only responsible for cutting hair but also for performing minor medical procedures such as bloodletting and tooth extraction. It was not until the 19th century that the profession of barbering became more specialized, with barbers focusing primarily on hair cutting and grooming. Today, barbers continue to play an important role in society, providing personal grooming services, promoting good hygiene practices, and serving as important community spaces. What is the old name for barbering? The old name for a barber is "barber-surgeon." In medieval times, barbers were not only responsible for cutting hair and grooming, but also for performing minor medical procedures such as bloodletting, wound treatment, and tooth extraction. The term "barber-surgeon" reflected the dual role that barbers played in society as both hairdressers and surgeons. Over time, the two professions separated, and barbers today primarily focus on hair cutting and grooming, while surgeons provide medical treatment. However, the historical connection between barbers and surgery is still reflected in the traditional symbol of the barber pole, which features red and white stripes representing blood and bandages, respectively. Is barbering a real job? Yes, barbering is a real and legitimate profession. Barbers are skilled professionals who provide a range of personal grooming services, including haircuts, shaves, beard trims, and hairstyling. They are trained and licensed to provide these services, and in many places, they are required to complete a specific training program and pass an exam to obtain their license. Barbering is a profession with a long history and cultural significance in many societies. Barbershops have traditionally been important social spaces, where people can gather, socialize, and discuss current events. Many people also rely on their barber for regular grooming services and to maintain their appearance. In recent years, the demand for barbers and barber services has continued to grow, with the industry projected to grow by over 5% between 2021 and 2026. This reflects the ongoing importance of barbering as a profession and the value that people place on personal grooming and self-care. Why do men go to the barbers? Men go to the barbers for a variety of reasons, including: Haircuts : One of the most common reasons men go to the barbers is for haircuts. Barbers are skilled at cutting hair and can help men achieve the hairstyle they want. Beard grooming : Many men also go to the barbers for beard grooming services, including beard trims and shaping. Shaves : Barbers are also trained in the art of shaving and can provide close shaves using traditional techniques and tools. Hair and scalp treatments : Some barbers also offer hair and scalp treatments, such as deep conditioning and scalp massages. Socializing : Barbershops have traditionally been important social spaces, where men can gather, talk, and socialize with others in the community. Personal care : Men also go to the barbers as part of their personal care routine. Regular grooming can help men look and feel their best, which can boost their confidence and self-esteem. Overall, men go to the barbers for a variety of reasons, ranging from practical grooming needs to socializing and personal care. Barbers are skilled professionals who can provide a range of services to help men look and feel their best. Is being a barber fun? Many barbers find their job to be enjoyable and fulfilling. They have the opportunity to work with people every day, help their clients look and feel their best, and often develop close relationships with their regular clients. Barbers also have the ability to express their creativity through hairstyling and grooming, which can be a fun and rewarding experience. In addition, many barbers find the social aspect of their job to be enjoyable. Barbershops have traditionally been important community spaces, where people can gather, socialize, and discuss current events. This can create a fun and lively atmosphere that many barbers enjoy being a part of. However, like any job, being a barber also comes with its challenges. Barbers may face long hours on their feet, dealing with difficult clients, and the pressure to consistently provide high-quality services. It also requires continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends and techniques. Overall, being a barber can be a fun and rewarding profession for those who enjoy working with people and have a passion for hairstyling and grooming. What should barbers know? Barbers are skilled professionals who provide a range of personal grooming services, including haircuts, shaves, beard trims, and hairstyling. To be a successful barber, there are several things that barbers should know: Haircutting techniques : Barbers should have a good understanding of different haircutting techniques, including using scissors, clippers, and razors. Hairstyling : Barbers should also know how to style hair using a range of techniques, including blow drying, flat ironing, and curling. Skin and hair types : Barbers should have a good understanding of different skin and hair types and how to work with each one. Safety and hygiene : Barbers should know how to maintain a clean and safe working environment, including proper sanitation procedures for equipment and surfaces. Customer service : Barbers should have good customer service skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with clients and provide excellent service. Business skills : If running their own business, barbers should have basic business skills such as bookkeeping, marketing, and inventory management. Industry trends : Barbers should stay up-to-date on industry trends, including new techniques, products, and styles. Overall, barbers should be knowledgeable and skilled in their craft, while also providing excellent customer service and maintaining a safe and clean environment.
by Barber Sylvester 20 April 2023
How much does a haircut cost ? The cost of men's haircut in the UK can very depending on few factors such as location, experience of the barbers and the type of barbershop. On average standard men's haircut in the UK can cost around £15 to £50 but however prices can vary in larger cities like London. Its worth noting that some barbershop offer a range of haircut and grooming services which can affect the overall cost, for example, a men's haircut that includes shampooing, conditioning and styling may cost more than a basic trim. additionally some barbershop may offer discount or special deals for repeat customers or certain days of the week in the barbers. its always best to check with the barbershop directly for the specific prices and services. How often should I get a haircut? The frequency with which a male should get a haircut depends on various factors such as hairstyle, hair type, personal reference and how quick their hair grows. In general most men get their haircut every 4 to 8 weeks to maintain their desire hair style and keep their hair looking neat and tidy. However some men choose to get their haircut more frequently especially if they have short hair styles or prefer a more polished appearance conversely men with long hair or those who prefer a more casual look may go longer between haircuts. Ultimately how often a man should get a haircut is a personal choice based on their individual hair and style preferences. its best to always consult with a barbers or a barbershop who can advice you on the frequency of your haircut based on your individual needs. How much do you tip a barber? While there are no set rules on how much to tip a barber, the general rule is to tip around 10 to 20% cost of the haircut and this means if your haircut cost £20, a 10 to 20 percent tip will be £2 to £4. However the amount you tip ultimately depends on your satisfaction with the services and how much you can afford. It's important to note that tipping is not mandatory but it is a way to show appreciation for the barber's skills and professionalism. If you're unsure how much to tip consider the quality of the haircut, the level of service provided and your budget. It's also worth noting that some barbershops and salons have a no-tipping policy or include gratuity in the cost of the services. In such cases tipping may not be necessary. How to find a good barber? Finding a good barber can be a bit challenging but there are a few things you can do to help locate a skilled and experienced barber who can give you the haircut you desire. Here are some tips to help you find a good barber: 1. Ask for referrals- Ask a friend, family or co-worker who have a great haircut where they go for their haircut. Referrals can be a great way to find a good barber as you get an honest opinion from someone you trust. 2.Check online reviews_ Look for reviews on social media platforms or online directories such as Google, Yelp or Facebook. Read though the reviews to get a sense of the barber's skills, experience and professionalism. 3. Visit multiple barbershops- Visit different barbershops and observe how the barbers interact with their costumers. Look for cleanliness and professionalism in the shop and check if they have a wide range of grooming services. 4.Communicate your needs- A good barber should be able to understand your needs and give you a haircut that matches your expectations. If you have a specific style you are looking for let them know.
by Pat McGraw 11 April 2023
Everybody wants to be in a good mood, but sometimes it's difficult to know how to get there. Your mental health is tied to everything you do, so you should make time for some activities that promote wellness in both your mind and body. Maybe the standard advice, things like receiving acupuncture treatment or going to the gym, works well for you. You might need to try something a little different if the norm is becoming stale and unhelpful. Repurpose Project UK invites you to try out some unusual methods for boosting your mental health and making your days better. 1. Have a Picnic at the Park Going to the park to enjoy a meal surrounded by refreshing outdoor scenery can brighten your day. Consider inviting a friend or loved one, but keep in mind that you can enjoy a peaceful picnic by yourself too. 2. Learn Tai Chi Practitioners of tai chi understand the importance of movement and balance. While tai chi may be considered a form of martial arts, it is first and foremost a meditative art. When you attend a tai chi class, you can start making a stronger connection between your body and mind. 3. Declutter Your Home If your home is cluttered, disorganized, and poorly lit, then it might be a source of stress for you. As you transition into a healthier lifestyle, it is important to address any issues with your home environment sooner rather than later. 4. Listen to Feel-Good Podcasts Podcasts are typically long-form conversations between experts or content creators that you can listen to on your music platform of choice. Listening to podcasts can be relaxing, engaging, or just make you feel good overall. There are podcasts for practically any area of interest you might have. 5. Volunteering Finding a productive way to serve your community can give you a fulfilling sense of purpose and incorporate some healthy activity into your daily routine. Whether it's assisting with education, wildlife care, or picking up trash, there's something you can do to make your community a better place. 6. Sing Aloud Health Fitness Revolution explains that singing can boost your mood, lower your blood pressure, or even help you sleep better. So sing aloud whenever the urge hits, even if you only do it when you're alone in the car or in the shower. 7. Express Gratitude Verywell Mind points out that receiving gratitude can boost a person's self-esteem, and knowing that you did that for someone can make you feel better about yourself too. So whether you choose to do it face-to-face or through a thank-you note, let everyone in your life know exactly why you appreciate them. 8. Start a Nonprofit Establishing your own nonprofit is a great way to empower yourself in your goal to help others. Once you outline the purpose that your nonprofit aims to fulfill in your community, it will be easier to apply for grants and public funding. Remember that it will be necessary to create detailed bylaws that outline how the corporation is governed, how often it will hold board meetings, how voting will work, and what to do in the event of a conflict of interest. Achieving strong mental health is something that everyone should strive for. It can be accomplished through small daily actions or through long-term commitments that will pay off a little at a time. Whether you’re receiving the drug-free benefits of acupuncture, starting a nonprofit or getting outdoors more often, it's important to find the right wellness activities that work for you.
by Sylvester King 21 March 2023
Last week I started his journey to visit prisons around the country and will continue through out the year, by doing this we are able to see and learn the impact that services like this, which also offers training and opportunities for individuals who want to change their life and become better people in the communities, have on prisoners. Route 8 barbers aim is to support these prisoners and advice them on how they can find work or even start their own business by offering our support. Are there barbershops/hairdressers in prison? The resounding answer to that is Yes, in fact these places offers prisoners the opportunity to train to be qualified barbers/hairdressers by gaining level 2 and level 3 certification and they have opportunity to use these qualification to either work for someone or set up their own business. Now of course you might ask how is that possible? It's simple, Prisoners have the morning and the afternoon to learn, while some prisons will offer different learning options according to their regime. Most prisons offer prisons the opportunity to use both morning and afternoon sessions to study which means they are able to learn quicker and get their qualifications quicker. This training have also been praised by prison bosses who believe teaching inmates to cut hair should reduce the risk of them re offending because it gives them the opportunity to start again. Most of these courses run at category C prisons that houses offenders aged 25 and under, they have seen improvements when people gets released. Everyone should be given a second chance and what it does is give people opportunities to rethink. Prisoners just don't learn about cutting hair as we saw when we visited HMP Nottingham, HMP Winchester and HMP Sodbury but they also learn patience, looking at life differently and to make a purposeful life upon release. Now of course no one is saying that everyone can be saved through this but if once person in different communities can change then the effects on the community as a whole is always greater Sue Taylor tells us more through her interview with The Modern Barber Magazine . How does an individual training learn? Most prisons have individuals offering this services on their wings which mean they can put into practise what they are learning or prisoners who wants to get a haircut can make an appointments with the main prison barbershops, where the individuals training are allowed to practice. I had the privilege to sit through few of this haircuts and was actually amazed to how great they were and the passion some of this guys put into their work. Does it work? Of course for those who really want to change and do something meaningful. There are numerous stories of individuals who changed their lives through barbering and continue to do so. Now I am one of them, I made a mistake and took the wrong path in life which ended me in prison, although I didn't learn barbering in prison but I am able to be in the position where I can offer individuals opportunities to change their lives through our shops and as we keep expanding. Through barbering I am able to give back to the community and put barbers in Swindon and barbers in Bristol that can use our barbershops to train young ones so they can keep in the right path and away from crime, our barbers in Swindon has always given hope to individuals who feel lost since it opened in 2017 and we continue to do that by using our barbers in Bristol. Some of this kids are lost and just need to be shown a path back and we will continue to do that and here is a story of someone who has changed their life too A clear cut career choice – training to become a barber whilst in prison Thank you all for reading.
by David Smith 8 March 2023
As a travelling professional, it can be difficult to maintain your health on the road. Between long flights, busy schedules, unfamiliar environments, and the convenience of takeout, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits and neglect your needs. But taking care of yourself is crucial for maintaining your productivity and actually enjoying your work trips. Today, Repurpose Project UK explores a few practical tips and strategies to help you stay happy and healthy when work takes you on the road. Staying Active on the Road You likely set off on business trips with the best intentions, planning to use the hotel gym or go on runs when you get some time for yourself. There are a couple of tricks you can use to hold yourself accountable. If you want to use the hotel gym, try to get your workout done first thing in the morning when your willpower is strongest. If you feel more comfortable workout out alone, follow along with bodyweight workout routines in your hotel room. You could even bring some portable suspension training gear along for a whole-body workout with minimal equipment. Safety Considerations While Travelling Safety should always be a top priority when travelling. The Travel Team explains that corporate travel safety starts before you leave. Share your itinerary with friends and family, leave expensive heirlooms and accessories at home, avoid booking hotel rooms on the ground floor, and familiarise yourself with the culture and customers of your destination. You may even want to bring a portable door lock or door stop alarm as an extra level of security while you’re in your hotel room. Also, always accept bellman assistance when you check in, allowing them to open the room and turn the lights on to ensure it’s vacant and ready for your stay. Research Barbershops and Salons Ahead of Time Travel can be a thrilling, yet challenging experience when it comes to keeping up appearances. Before embarking on your trip, it is important to keep in mind your grooming and hair care needs. If you're worried about finding a barbershop or salon while travelling, it helps to do some research ahead of time so that you know what's available and have the necessary tools at hand. This ensures that you won't fall short when trying to maintain your normal beauty regimen while away from home. Even if the options are not as comprehensive as they usually are back home, you can still find ways to stay looking and feeling great during your journey. Bringing Your Dog Along It may come as no surprise that travelling with your dog can help you stay active on the road. According to The American Kennel Club, spending time around your dog can also help combat feelings of loneliness, lower your blood pressure, and relieve stress. If it makes sense to bring your dog along on a few business trips, be sure to pack a few essential pet supplies to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy. Bring a leash and collar, identification tags, food and water bowls, toys, bedding, and a pet first-aid kit. You can even find product reviews from vets for these items on unbiased information websites. Digitising Your Travel Documents Losing important documents on the road is a traveller’s worst nightmare. Before leaving on your trip, digitise your documents so they’re less likely to get lost or stolen. Carrying digital copies is also more convenient, saving space and offering peace of mind. Make sure all of your documents are filed together. If file size is an issue, use this free online tool to help make your PDF smaller. This will allow you to save multiple PDF files without taking up too much space on your device. Maintaining a Healthy Diet With some planning and preparation, maintaining your healthy eating goals on business trips doesn’t have to be a struggle. Bring healthy snacks along to avoid relying on fast food or vending machines. Before leaving on your trip, research restaurants near your hotel with healthy dining options. Try to stick to a regular meal schedule even if your work schedule is hectic, as this can help you avoid overeating or making unhealthy food choices out of hunger. Staying on track with your health and wellness goals while travelling for work is not impossible, but it does require some effort and planning. Follow the tips outlined in this article to keep yourself safe, protect your travel documents, eat healthily, and stay active while on the road. And if you’re traveling with your dog, be sure to prepare for their needs as well! Repurpose Project UK understands that people need a purpose in life and works to provide support and funding to help them flourish. Let us know if you have any questions!
by Sylvester Okoli 7 February 2023
1 . Short Cropped Haircut Short haircuts such as buss cuts and crew cuts continue to be popular and are easy to maintain. They are a popular chose for men who want to look stylist with a low maintenance look that still offer styling options. Short, cropped haircuts for men include: 1 . Buzz cut : A buzz cut is a short low maintain haircut with clippers used to trim the hair to a uniform length all over the head. 2 . Crew Cut : a crew cut is similar to a buzz cut but with slightly longer hair o top that is styled Short Side Part: This haircut involves a short length on the sides and back, with the top being slightly longer and styled with a side part. 3 . Short Side Part : This haircut involves a short length on the sides and back, with the top being slightly longer and styled with a side part. 4 . Short French Crop : A short French crop is a modern version of a crew cut, with the hair on top styled forward and a fringe added for a trendy look. 5 . Short Textured Cut : This style features choppy layers and a textured finish, giving a stylish and edgy look.
by Anna 7 November 2022
Introduction Ah, the hair care classics. Every girl with curly or wavy hair wrestles with this one―the dilemma of beachy waves versus defined curls. Unfortunately, you can't decide whether to embrace your waves or tame your curls, so you usually do both―and then end up with some parts that look great while others do not. There are several ways to make wavy hair curlier, but today I'm going to focus on the eleven methods you can use at home. If your hair is naturally wavy and you're reading this post because your wave pattern isn't as defined as you would like, don't worry because help is near.
by Sylvester Insta sylvester.barber.king 30 March 2022
The coronavirus pandemic remains to have a considerable impact on the hair and beauty sector, with several firms trying to adjust to the abrupt changes that have interrupted regular functioning. Revenues have been impacted as well. Because of the regulations, passing transaction possibilities have been curtailed. Also, social distancing and stricter sanitary rules indicate barbers are receiving fewer visitors each day to get time for cleaning. According to the business studies in 2020, barbering industry owners suffered an average financial blow of £17,000. One out of every ten players in the sector remained unsuccessful to provide any revenue or returns. Many enterprises in the field are now extremely prone to failures, with most of them possessing no capital base by 2020. Fortunately, the barbers came up with innovative and effective ways to offer services to their consumers during the epidemic, which is positive. To remain sustainable, barbers have turned to digital services to expand their operations and generate alternative revenue sources. It is a showcase of the barbering industry's ability to sustain interaction with people, from presenting telephonic talks to providing online tutorials. Guidelines followed by Barbers during Covid-19 Take a look at the strategies barbers have used to protect themselves and their clients from covid19 while still keeping their businesses functioning during tough times. • Hygiene of the hands Hands are important for both styling hair and transmitting the infection from one person to another. As a result, it's more crucial than ever for barbers to clean their hands often during the day, especially when they sneeze or cough, and before and after serving a customer. Having hand sanitizer accessible at workstations allowed them to save time by not having to wash their hands with soap and water. • Social distancing: Barbers evolved novel techniques to preserve social distance even in confined areas. ➢ By restricting access to the workplace to keep the number of individuals inside the salon at any given moment to a minimum. ➢ By lowering the number of employees to improve the space between workstations. ➢ By altering the design of the space and eliminating furnishings to encourage social distancing. ➢ By providing every chair with its own workstation and hairstyling supplies to enhance hygiene. • Improved ventilation: The significance of proper ventilation cannot be ignored during pandemics. Due to the usage of hair sprays and other chemicals in hairdressing, natural air is extremely vital at a barbershop. Natural ventilation was increased in barbershops in the United Kingdom by opening doors and windows. Mechanical ventilation assisted in reducing respiratory problems caused by confined and enclosed environments where there was a lack of natural airflow. What do barbershops in the UK look like during the pandemic? • Social distancing floor markings and clear plastic screens between chairs to encourage social distancing. • Customers are served by hairdressers and barbers who are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). • Electronic payments eliminate the need for actual monetary exchange. • Compulsory appointment for the purpose of limiting the number of guests. • Temperature monitoring at the front desk to keep track. • If at all feasible, virtual consultations. • There will be no tea, coffee, or magazines available in the salon. • Staff will wear surgical face masks.​ • When providing services, the staff uses medical grade gloves. • Aprons and gowns that can be thrown away after serving a client. Assistance Provided by the UK Government: Nobody could have predicted the impact of the coronavirus epidemic on daily life, with many barbers feeling under obligation to continue their business and their homes going during this trying period. The UK government has gathered the greatest materials to assist barbers ride out the storm and adapt to the "new normal" in order to help them get through this rough situation. Everything has been covered by the government, including financial help and psychological aids, as well as counseling on how to optimize services during the epidemic and the proper guidelines and directions to follow. • Self-Employment Income Support Scheme: During the lockdown, the government provided up to 80% of self-employed professionals' average trade profits. Self-employed professionals who are momentarily unable to run their services or have noticed a decline in visitors as a result of the outbreak will be supported throughout the winter, as per the guarantees of this scheme. • The Emergency Business Loan Scheme: Bounce Back Loans During the second Covid-19 lockout, the government granted the Emergency Business Loan Scheme, letting firms to "top up" their loans. If a beauty enterprise has previously received financing from the BBLS, they can add to their current loans if they need more money. • Grants for business locations The Local Restrictions Support Grant provided grants of up to £3,000 per month to businesses in England who were forced to shut. In addition, local governments would get £1.1 billion in one-time payments worth £20 per person to help them boost companies more generally. • Holidays from mortgage payments: Entrepreneurs who have borrowed and have been affected by Covid-19 and have not yet taken a mortgage payment holiday will be eligible for a six-month break. Also, a mortgage payment holiday extension is allowed to those who already have initiated a mortgage holiday. Without a question, this sector will regain its footing, however, it will take time since formerly successful business structures and procedures will need to adjust. Pricing of the services will need to be strictly managed as the cost rises due to the requirement for more cleaning products and PPE. The barbering sector is full of sharp, sophisticated experts, but a stronger focus on building business skills will be critical for this field, which has historically prioritized technical competence over commercial aptitude in its training. This developing barbering industry proved effective in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, and it has the potential to contribute significantly to the UK's post-pandemic economic recovery. After realizing the tremendous job prospects offered by this industry, it is time for the government to help its revival. By Sylvester (Instagram link below)
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