Dementia-friendly barbers give Leighton Buzzard care home residents a fresh new look
Residents at a Leighton Buzzard care home were treated to a feel-good grooming experience after a specialist dementia-friendly barber service brought the atmosphere of a traditional barbershop directly into the home.
Dementia Friendly Barbers recently visited Leighton Rose, part of the Macc Care Group, offering male residents professional trims and hot towel shaves in a relaxed, familiar setting to help promote comfort and dignity.
The experience was designed to feel like a classic trip to the barbers, complete with pub snacks, a beer for those who wished, and re-runs of Only Fools and Horses playing in the background – sparking conversation and smiles throughout the afternoon.
Dementia Friendly Barbers was created with a clear mission: to bring specialised, empathetic grooming into dementia care homes. Its team is trained in dementia-friendly practices, ensuring each visit is respectful and tailored to the individual.
For residents, the impact was immediate. Roger Gregory, 86, who took part in the session, said:
“It was a real treat to have a fresh trim and shave. I’m very grateful to the team for arranging it, and to Chris for coming in and making me feel so relaxed throughout.”
The positive effects were also felt by families, with Lynsey – whose father lives at the home – saying: “After the visit, Dad called me to tell me he’d had a haircut and a shave and now feels great!”
Chris Floyd, the barber who led the session, said: “I’m thankful to the home for having me, and for making it such a positive experience. I’m really looking forward to visiting again on 4th March.”
Bhav Amlani, Director of Macc Care Group, said: “At Macc Care, we prioritise the health, comfort, wellbeing and dignity of each of our residents, and we’re proud to be able to offer them such a wonderful service.
"Chris is not only a fantastic barber, but a natural when it comes to making our residents feel at home, and we’re looking forward to welcoming him back soon.”
The visit reflects Leighton Rose’s commitment to enhancing everyday life for residents through meaningful experiences that support confidence, identity and wellbeing – especially for those living with dementia.