Published on: 7th July 2026
The London Spinal Cord Injury Centre hosts its popular Groom Room and Pamper Parlour sessions every other Thursday. On the last Father's Day a few weeks ago, the team chose a special fathers-themed event for the Groom Room, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for patients.
These sessions provide an opportunity for patients to socialise while enjoying a range of treatments, including haircuts (provided by qualified staff), toenail and fingernail care and painting, waxing, massage, facials and threading. The sessions are led by Aileen and Rebecca, Patient Education and Health Coaches, with support from ward and therapy staff who have received specialist training in a variety of services, from podiatry to waxing.
As patients are often spending longer periods in hospital, the team recognises the importance of helping them take time out from their treatment and care routines, allowing them to relax, boost their wellbeing and feel more like themselves again.
On this occasion, one of our inpatients, who is a qualified barber, was invited to put her skills into practice by providing haircuts for fellow patients. Her chair quickly attracted a queue of eager customers. For her, this was something she had never imagined would be possible again, and it brought back memories of the last time she had been able to work as a barber.
Her involvement was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, encouragement and the right support. It was truly inspiring to watch her confidence grow throughout the session, reflected in the smile she wore all day. Speaking afterwards, she said she was overjoyed to be doing what she loves most. In fact, she was so enthused by the experience that she went on to give several more haircuts later that evening.