Blackpool College supports Commissioner's campaign to #NailDomesticAbuse

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw has visited Blackpool and The Fylde College to meet students and staff supporting his county-wide #NailDomesticAbuse campaign. The initiative offers training for hair, nail, beauty and wellness professionals to help them spot the signs of domestic abuse.

All hair and beauty students at the College have been encouraged to complete the training, which includes videos filmed in real salon settings, information on different types of domestic abuse, and advice on how to safely support anyone who may be affected.

Over 1,900 professionals have already registered for the training since the campaign launch, showing both the need and the willingness to offer support from those working in the industry.

The Commissioner met with tutors and students to hear how the training is already making a difference, and to talk to them about the important part they are playing in raising awareness of domestic abuse. Students also heard from Fylde Coast Women’s Aid who are funded by the Commissioner’s Office to provide specialist support to victims of domestic abuse in the area.

Speaking at Blackpool College, Commissioner Grunshaw said: “Hair and beauty professionals build close, trusted relationships with their clients, putting them in a unique position to notice when something isn’t quite right.

“The #NailDomesticAbuse campaign is a fantastic tool to raise awareness of domestic abuse and to ensure that those working in this industry can direct their clients towards available support safely and confidently.

“Tackling violence against women and girls is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan for Lancashire, and with International Women’s Day fast approaching, today is a perfect opportunity to highlight the campaign and to thank the College for their support in making it a success.”

Annie Kerfoot, Vice Principal, Foundational Economy at B&FC, said: “We are committed to supporting all our students and apprentices to recognise the signs of domestic abuse – and understanding how to respond appropriately.

“The #NailDomesticAbuse campaign is really effective in providing a structured way to build that awareness as part of developing their wider skills and knowledge in preparation for careers in the sector.

“That’s important because we don’t just teach technical skills at B&FC: we also expect our students and apprentices to contribute positively to their communities. By equipping them to support clients safely and signpost them to specialist help, this campaign empowers them to have a genuine impact in raising awareness and resilience about this important issue.”

Tina Hibbard, CEO at Fylde Coast Women’s Aid, added: “We are proud to support today’s event and the #NailDomesticAbuse campaign, which is already proving successful in raising awareness across our community.

“When professionals understand the signs of abuse and know how to respond safely, it can quite literally change — and even save — lives. Campaigns like this can help survivors take those first vital steps towards support, and we are committed to being there for anyone who needs us.”

Lancashire hair and beauty businesses can sign up for the free training and request materials for their salon at naildomesticabuse.co.uk.