Hair in the Community is a non-profit organisation based in Exeter, supporting young people aged 14–25 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). We work with those facing serious challenges – young people with mental health difficulties, experience of the care system, involvement in or risk of offending, and those with complex learning needs.
Many of the young people we support have disengaged from education through no fault of their own. They may come from low-income families, have experienced trauma, unstable home lives, or ongoing learning and mental health challenges. We see potential in every young person who walks through our doors. With the right support, guidance and training, we know they can turn things around.
We offer free taster sessions in hairdressing, barbering and beauty, alongside tailored careers advice and mental health support. It’s about more than just learning a skill – it’s about building confidence, self-worth and a sense of purpose.
Hair in the Community is the charitable arm of Hair at the Academy, our award winning training salon and National Centre of Excellence that’s been supporting vulnerable young people in Exeter for over 20 years. Sadly, many still fall through the gaps due to lack of funding. That’s where Hair in the Community comes in – offering support where others can’t.
We also give back to the wider community by offering free haircuts and grooming services to those most in need – because everyone deserves to feel good about themselves. We urgently need funding to keep this work going. Please support us if you can.
OUR MISSION
At Hair in the Community, our mission is clear: to offer free hairdressing, barbering, and beauty services to disadvantaged individuals, while also providing vocational education and training opportunities to empower those in need. Through our work, we aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of people across Devon and Dorset and beyond.
HOW WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE
We understand the challenges faced by individuals dealing with homelessness, unemployment, and other difficulties. That’s why, through Hair in the Community, we offer:
– Free haircuts and grooming services to those in need
– Barber, hairdressing, and beauty training, providing pathways to employment
– Career support and apprenticeship guidance
– Collaboration with local charities, including St Petrock’s Homeless charity and Exeter Chiefs Foundation
These efforts are supported by the highly skilled staff and students at Hair at the Academy, who volunteer their time and expertise to make a real difference in the lives of others. It’s more than just hairdressing—it’s about giving people the confidence to take the next positive step forwards in life.
