Visit by dementia friendly barbers was a cut above for Leighton Buzzard care home
Residents at a Leighton Buzzard care home were treated to a feel-good grooming experience after a visit from a specialist dementia-friendly barber.
Dementia Friendly Barbers brought the experience of a traditional barbershop directly to Leighton Rose, offering male residents professional trims and hot towel shaves in a relaxed setting to help promote comfort and dignity.
The event was designed to feel like a classic trip to the barbers, complete with pub snacks with a beer, 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, it was a cut above. 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 endorsed by families, with Lynsey, whose father lives at the home, commenting: “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 March 4.”
Bhav Amlani, director of Macc Care Group, which runs the home, 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.