Mental health charity founder's work recognised

Tom Chapman, founder of mental health charity The Lions Barber Collective, has won two major awards in recognition of his work. 

Tom has not only been presented with the Marie Claire Special Jury Award for recognition of going above and beyond in the hair industry for others, but also achieved the High Sheriff of Devon's Award for recognition of great and valuable services to the community.

During the pandemic, Devon-based Tom was able to dedicate his time to The Lions Barber Collective and BarberTalk training programme, which educates hair professionals to discuss mental health with clients and signpost them to the best support services. He has also developed Hair&BeautyTalk to widen the programme across the beauty and hair sectors. In addition, Tom launched a new podcast called 'BarberTalk - Tales from the Chair' to raise awareness and provide a platform to demonstrate open conversations between men in his virtual barbershop.

Commenting on his achievements in gaining the Marie Claire Special Jury Award and High Sheriff of Devon's Award, Tom Chapman, founder of Lions Barber Collective, says: 

“Shocked isn't the word! I am totally engulfed in what I do with my mission raising awareness around mental health and hoping to train all the hair and beauty professionals, so they have the tools and confidence to ask great questions, listen well and signpost to existing resources. They deal with these kinds of conversations every day! 

“To be recognised by the 1000+ year old office of the High Sheriff, who is appointed by The Queen and a hugely respected magazine like Marie Claire in the space of two days is beyond amazing! It really does give some validation to something I have dedicated my life to and persevered with in difficult times. It drives me forward and I'll never give up trying to make a difference and save lives.”