The plan is to raise money for BYHP (Banbury Young Homeless People). Every year BYHP works with over 400 young people in the Cherwell District.
Over half are aged 16 & 17, with roughly equal numbers of men and women. 37% of them were homeless on their first visit to BYHP and some had slept rough at some point in the past 4 weeks.
"These youngsters are brave enough to face up to their problems, then, by comparison, standing on the wing of the plane for 15 minutes is nothing! Life is all about challenges and moving out of one's comfort zone. I hope that I can help to make a small difference as a result of this last test on my fiftieth birthday." Beverley Bates, Ekko salon owner and director.
The entire salon has whole-heartedly embraced the initiative, throughout July guests are being to make an (optional) 50p donation for Ekko's complimentary hand and arm massages. Plus all the monies from gents wet shaves are being added to the pot for BYHP. Jane Smith, Crisis Manager at BYHP, came to speak to the salon at the weekly team meet, following her talk the individual stylists are looking at other ways they can support BYHP, for example offering free haircuts as part of the interview training.
The charity provides a Drop In Centre - a safe place for the Young People to meet and spend time. It also offers Family Mediation to enable them to remain at or return home and a Counselling Service to help these vulnerable and confused youngsters, plus many other support services. For more information visit: www.byhp.org.uk
BYHP is reliant on fundraising support from individuals and businesses. Please encourage and support Beverley and her husband and friend in helping her raise funds for this worthy cause. You can make a donation at the salon in the collection boxes or online at www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com.
