New guidelines say all hairdressers must reduce the time customers spend in their chairs so any services offered should be "short and basic" treatments- but this will disadvantage Black customers.

Many treatments and hairstyles Black customers receive take a few hours at a time. If the expectation is that customers can only receive their hair treatment if a short period of time is taken, then this doesn't cater to the needs of those of African and Caribbean heritage. Given the negative implications and ramifications Covid -19 has had on the mental, financial and physical wellbeing of people, this new guidance appears to reinforce, rather than alleviate this. Whilst the reopening of salons is a positive step in the right direction, opposing aims may be achieved for those from Black minority backgrounds if this aspect isn't reconsidered and changed.

Everyone deserves the right to be able to safely access hairdressing services, not just those who are from European, or White Caucasian backgrounds.

If those from Black minority backgrounds are prevented from using their salons, this will further compound the detrimental effects of Covid, for individuals as well as businesses.

If you are saddened and outraged by the implications of this guidance, now is the time for action. Now is the time for a change. Now is the time to make a difference. Please sign and share.