Milton Keynes care home residents celebrate first post-lockdown haircuts in further step towards normality

Ashby House Care Home in Milton Keynes finally welcomed back its hairdresser after a 15-month wait.

Jenny, had been unable to cut the care home residents' hair due to Covid safety measures.

The care home looks after elderly members of the community who no longer live at home. As well as those in need of respite care during short breaks.

With the elderly community listed as vulnerable to Covid, Jenny stayed away throughout the three national lockdowns and prior to the start of the vaccination rollout.

Jenny discussed returning after a challenging 15 months, saying: “It is lovely to be back and to see the Hair Salon decorated for my return. It brought a tear to my eye!”

For many residents it was the longest they'd ever gone between haircuts. Wojciech Kuczkowski, general manager at Ashby House, explained how important this is to

residents: “It really felt like Christmas. Our residents are delighted to get a good cut, and to feel like themselves again, especially the ladies. It is wonderful to see them all so happy and looking their best. We have really missed, Jenny, and it is fantastic to welcome her back again.”

Prior to the pandemic Jenny would visit the home regularly. A spokesperson for the care home said: "regular visits are important in helping to maintain the feel-good atmosphere at the home."

Typically, staff would run engaging physical, creative and mental activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. As well as pamper sessions designed to make the residents feel good about themselves.

This month, indoor visits have been authorised at the home again, while outdoor entertainment for residents has also been arranged. Wojciech added: “We are welcoming new residential, dementia, nursing and respite residents and are pleased they can enjoy all the opportunities offered by our Activities Team. We are still keeping our home as safe as possible through vaccinations for staff and residents, regular testing and robust infection control procedures.”