A group of hairdressing students has been nominated for a Global Citizenship Award for their work in the Borders General Hospital (BGH) Borders View Ward, a transitional care unit for those living with dementia.
NHS Borders recently contacted the College to ask if the students would be interested in carrying out hair services on patients, and the department was delighted to be given the opportunity.
The work, which included shampoo and sets, gents cuts and blow drying, has allowed the Level 5 A students to gain experience in customer service and cutting techniques while providing a comfortable environment and a vital service to those who may not be able to get a haircut in the community.
Borders College Hairdressing Lecturer Wendy McCutcheon said:
“It’s great for our students to get practical experience throughout their course and the additional benefit of this partnership means that patients who potentially haven’t had a haircut for a while can enjoy a complimentary trim.
“They were very professional and did a great job of making patients feel more like themselves. They thoroughly deserve their Global Citizenship Awards. Well done!”
Senior Charge Nurse at NHS Borders Lorna Wilson commented:
“The patients thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the interaction with the young students. It gave the patients a sense of normality despite being in hospital. Our patients were relaxed and happy after their haircuts and we had positive feedback from their families.”
Plans are now in place for the students to continue the service over the summer period and into next year.
The Global Citizenship Award was introduced at the College to assist students in developing the essential skills and personality traits that allow them to effectively interact with the world at large, hence turning them into productive ‘Global Citizens’.