With resources pushed to the limit regarding counselling in Northern Ireland, a new initiative has arrived via the Belfast-based Public Initiative for the Prevention of Suicide and Self-harm [Pips].
Pips has recruited hairdressers and barbers to help spot vulnerable people who might be contemplating taking their own lives.
Apparently, we all 'open up' when we sit in the barber's chair and now your local barber or hairdresser, in parts of Northern Ireland at least, will be specially trained in spotting the symptoms.
The Guardian reports that Pips has been set up to counter rising suicide rates in Northern Ireland and has established a training course for hairdressing salons and barber shops across the province.
Philip McTaggart, Pips founder and chairperson, said, "The scheme involves training staff to notice when someone is vulnerable so they can suggest counselling and pass on cards and leaflets from organisations that might help."
In essence it's a good idea and one that should be given, at the very least, a golf-like round of applause but I can't help feeling that this may just be the precursor for pharmaceutical companies to jump on the band-wagon and sell their wares via yet more agents.
Whatever next? Patients going to their doctors asking for a short back and sides?
"Something for the weekend Sir?"
"Here, try some Seroxat."
Fid
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