I met with many local MP’s, other My New Hair patients, hair professionals and nurses. I found out more about the issues faced by other people who lose their hair through medical reasons or from cancer treatment.
The event took place at the House of Commons on October 27th and called for improvements in NHS wig services for men, women and children affected by medical hair loss. Services vary in quality and patient experience differs widely across the country.
Many of the MP’s Said...
“I am saddened that many patients who suffer hair loss as a result of cancer treatment or other medical condition are still not receiving the support that they need from the NHS. Hair loss causes significant distress to patients; the NHS must work harder to ensure that wig services are organised in the interest of the patient and include good quality wigs as well as appropriate emotional and practical support. By training hair professionals to understand the needs of patients and to help them to find a style that works for them, My New Hair is making a big difference to patients’ lives. “
My New Hair was founded by acclaimed hairdresser Trevor Sorbie M.B.E inspired by his own experience helping a family member during cancer treatment. Trevor now dedicates all of his salon time to offering advice and a wig customisation service to clients suffering medical hair loss.
Says Trevor “This is the beginning of what will be a challenging but exciting journey with the NHS – we have helped set the precedent and encourage the rest of the country to follow our lead. My New Hair has given me a whole new dimension to job satisfaction, using my skills to give something back to society and do something truly meaningful. It isn’t about hair, its psychological medicine for women who are suffering hair loss through illness.”
The charity provides services directly to people suffering medical hair loss and trains an independent national network of hairdressers to cut and style wigs making them more personal and natural looking.
I was really honored to be part of something that has effected me for the past 15 years and to feel like I have now played a part in helping to improve this NHS service.
I personally have not used the NHS for years. My previous experience was having to wait for months to get a dermatologist appointment, then once I got the appointment I would just be given a voucher to get 2 synthetic wigs that I had to pay a £60 prescription charge for.
As I suffer from long term hairloss I like to wear a wig that has a very thin base that is more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time and I also I like to use real hair in my wig as this is more realistic and longer lasting.
In the past i have felt the NHS could not offer me any help with my long term hairloss. Hopefully this is the start of great things to come!
Please visit my website www.alopeciabeautytips.com where you can see how my story has been in the Daily Mail, GMTV with Lorraine Kelly, Marie Claire and how i have worked with the little princess trust charity and Trevor Sorbies Charity 'My New Hair'
Wow, that sounds like a great experience Aimee! It must feel great to be a part of something that will hopefully bring improvements to thousands of people suffering from hair loss in the UK - go you! NB, Manchester
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