Staff at a salon in Whitefield are highlighting the mental health benefits of beauty appointments by embarking on a sponsored walk and charity event this weekend.

Staff at hair and nail salon, YOU MCR are inviting the community to join them for a day of fundraising activities this Sunday, August 21, in aid of two mental health charities, Manchester Mind and Bolton-based WHYSUP.

The day will begin at 9am with a 10k walk from Manchester Market Street back to the salon on Bury New Road.  

From 11am the community can visit the salon for a fundraising day where businesses including Spice & Grind and Bloomin’ Lovely will set up stalls selling flowers, coffee and more.

YOU MCR have organised a raffle and will also be taking on blow dry and nail appointments with all proceeds going to charity.

The salon, which, opened in April this year, aim to raise £2,000 in aid of mental health and suicide awareness. 

Co-owner Samantha Spencer, 28, said: “Many of our clients come in not just for a hair or nail appointment, but for a break from their reality or could have recently faced losses, traumatic experiences or be suffering with issues in their personal lives.

“The girls in the salon experience this first hand and acknowledge that some people come for escapism and want to all they can to support and acknowledge this.

“Therefore we decided to work with two incredible charities, MANCHESTER MIND and WHYSUP to raise awareness for mental health and suicide which has affected us personally after a loss in the family and touches many others.”

In addition, Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH) nurses will be available on the day for a chat and advice.

A GMMH spokesperson said “GMMH one of the largest specialist mental health providers in the country and we believe strongly in advocating for awareness and destigmatising mental health.

“Our free helpline is here to help if you are worried or anxious about your mental health or feeling as though you are in a mental health crisis and need urgent support and help.

"The helpline is also there for you if you are concerned about a loved one, neighbour, friend or family member .

“You can call our helpline on 0800 953 0285, any time, day or night, 365 days per year, free of charge.”

At mid-day, the salon will host guest speaker Joshua Cheetham, CEO and Co-Founder of Altbe, a personal development coaching company, who has worked with the BBC. 

Samantha, along with co-owner Ellie Spencer and hair stylist Mia Spencer added: “This is something we hold very close to hearts due to the loss of too many individuals we know and love.

“We have to make more people aware and help the people around us who so desperately need it.”

Anyone wishing to join the walk is asked to meet the group at 8.30am on Market Street, and to call the salon on 0161 796 7566 for a charity t-shirt. 

Visit YOU MCR's crowdfunder to make a donation.