Transforming Lives Through Barbering - Our Impact at HMP Nottingham
July 07, 2023Posted by:
We are thrilled to announce that our tutors, Joe Thomas and Ben Oakley, have been recognised for their outstanding work at HMP Nottingham in a recent feature in 'Modern Barber' magazine. As the largest independent provider of training and education in prisons, we are proud to deliver over 600 accredited courses in 22 prisons across the UK, empowering thousands of inmates to build a better future.
Joe and Ben's expertise lies in teaching an adapted Level 2 Diploma in Barbering to inmates at HMP Nottingham. Their mission is to equip prisoners with the skills necessary to transition into society and potentially pursue a career in the barbering industry. Having dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to this endeavor, Joe and Ben have witnessed remarkable transformations within their students.
In the article, Ben shares his journey of transitioning from a successful barber to becoming a tutor at PeoplePlus. Recognising the challenges of maintaining his own barbershop while teaching, Ben made the difficult decision to sell his shop and fully commit to the education of inmates at HMP Nottingham. Joe joined the team shortly after, bringing with him 18 years of barbering experience and a shared passion for empowering individuals.
The PeoplePlus course not only focuses on technical skills but also emphasises customer care and communication. Joe and Ben create an environment that replicates a real barbershop, where inmates learn to cater to a diverse range of clients. By working with fellow inmates who sign up for haircuts, the learners gain valuable experience and enhance their confidence and interpersonal skills.
An important aspect of the course is encouraging students to explore different styles beyond the popular 'skin fade'. Joe and Ben guide them to experiment with various techniques, such as tapering and blending, expanding their repertoire and enabling them to offer more versatile services. The tutors themselves have learned a great deal from the prisoners, with one student excelling in canerows and plaits, enriching the overall learning experience.
The true reward for Joe and Ben lies in witnessing the inmates' aspirations and plans for the future. While not all participants aim to pursue barbering professionally, the acquired skills still empower them to make a positive impact in their personal lives. Joe recounts the story of a student who simply wishes to cut his family members' hair, saving them money and providing support.
We are immensely proud of Joe Thomas and Ben Oakley for their dedication and the positive impact they have made in the lives of inmates at HMP Nottingham. Their commitment to empowering individuals and promoting second chances serves as an inspiration to us all as we join forces to create a more inclusive industry and embrace the potential within every individual, regardless of their past.
Read the full article here: Modern Barber July/sept 2023 | Powered by Pocketmags
July 07, 2023Posted by:
