A new training initiative has been launched to help salon professionals recognise and respond to signs of domestic violence, coercive control, and substance abuse.
The free training, taking place today at the Silver Tassie Hotel in Donegal, is being organised by HSE Social Inclusion in partnership with An Garda Síochána, Donegal Domestic Violence Service, and the North West Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force.
“Salon professionals are uniquely positioned to support individuals experiencing domestic violence, coercive control, and addiction,” organisers said in a public statement.
“Recognising this, HSE Social Inclusion…is offering free training to equip salon professionals with the knowledge and tools to identify the signs of abuse and addiction and appropriately signpost individuals to support services.”
The session, which runs from 10:00AM to 1:00PM, includes testimony from a survivor with lived experience, and aims to equip attendees with both practical and emotional tools to support vulnerable clients.
According to organisers, the training will include: “Practical guidance on recognising warning signs of domestic violence, coercive control, and substance misuse,” they said.
“Strategies for offering discreet support and signposting clients to relevant services.”
Attendees will also receive detailed information on local support resources and “best practices for handling sensitive conversations while maintaining professional boundaries.”
The training will be delivered by experts in the field and is open to all salon professionals, including those working from home.
“This powerful perspective will deepen understanding and strengthen the ability to provide compassionate support,” the event description stated.
The initiative forms part of a broader public health approach to tackling domestic abuse and addiction, where frontline community workers – including salon staff – are being trained to act as early points of contact for vulnerable individuals.