Sheer Haven domestic abuse training comes to Ireland

A free training course to help beauty and hair professionals recognise signs of domestic abuse in their clients has launched into Ireland.

First established in Nashville, Tennessee in 2017, Sheer Haven anti-domestic violence salon training has been brought to our shores by salon business expert, Liz McKeon, herself a survivor of domestic abuse. 

Gardaí reported a 25% increase in domestic violence calls in April and May 2020 compared to the same period in 2019, and according to L&RS (Library & Research Service) around 15% of women and 6% of men in Ireland have experienced severe domestic violence from a partner. 

Now, through Sheer Haven training, salon professionals will be equipped to recognise signs of domestic abuse, successfully navigate conversations with clients who may be in danger, and signpost clients to the right help to get them to safety. 

The training was initially developed by YWCA Nashville and Middle Tennessee and volunteer Susanne Post, a Nashville-based salon owner, stylist and survivor of domestic violence. 

During the pandemic, Barbicide teamed up with Susanne and the YWCA to offer Shear Haven training online which, to date, more than 25,000 beauty professionals globally have undertaken.

Sheer Haven training consists of a 20-minute online session followed by a short quiz. After completion, each participant receives a personalised certificate of achievement. 

Take Sheer Haven training online for free, and if you, or anyone you know, requires assistance in relation to domestic violence, visit www.womensaid.ie.