London stylist Jo Haywood highlights the need for salons to be more accessible to the UK's 18 million Deaf adults. She shares practical advice for creating a welcoming environment, moving beyond the limitations of phone bookings.
Haywood suggests prioritising online booking systems and social media consultations. This allows Deaf clients, and those with hearing difficulties, to communicate preferences and share visual references before appointments. Typing and visual aids like photos and pen-to-paper notes help ensure understanding and save valuable appointment time.
Simple adjustments can significantly improve the client experience. Using text or email for appointment reminders, rather than phone calls, is a key step. Being mindful of lip-reading, by maintaining a neutral mouth pattern and clear visibility, aids communication. Keeping salon noise levels down and allowing extra time for appointments, especially if communication barriers exist, reduces client stress.
Even learning basic British Sign Language phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' can foster a stronger client connection. Haywood also advocates for using captions on social media content to keep Deaf followers informed and included. These steps, she argues, demonstrate kindness and a commitment to serving all clients effectively.
