Barbertalk live hosts first event - here's what happened

The first ever BarberTalk Live event has proved a sell-out success. Held at Lucky 7 Club in Paignton, Devon and organised by Lions Barber Collective founder Tom Chapman, the event on 28 April trained over 40 barbers in suicide prevention. With the aim of opening up the conversation around mental health with clients, the event saw leading barbering names such as Wez Jones and Dan Davies of Pall Mall Barbers demonstrate their skills and talk about their experiences at the club, as well as Lions Barber Ambassadors such as Stacey Ayles, Darren Birch and Tom Chapman take their turn on stage.

The BarberTalk Live Verdict

The day inspired, moved as well as educated attendees. Here are just some of the testimonials from the day... "BarberTalk Live was a truly awesome day. We were able to help barbers and hairdressers in the Torbay area recognise and be trained in suicide awareness. Our goal and drive is now shared with others to achieve zero suicide across the UK. It was a day that took strength and bravery from all that took part but resulted in an even bigger collective of people striving for the safety of humanity. We all have the ability to be strong, but together, we are stronger." Wez Jones "BarberTalk Live was an incredibly well put together day; the culmination of some very hard work, by some inspirational people. We laughed, we cried, we had flashbacks, but most importantly, we did it together. It was a day to remember and a day I’m proud to have been involved in. To share the stage with these people, is the highlight of my career so far." Darren Birch "This event was a very powerful and emotional journey for me. Along with adding to my skill sets, it helped me identify that I had been dismissing signs of suicide with my own son... I would not have been aware of this if the training hadn’t have taken place, this in itself, has helped save a life and for that, I am very grateful. I now feel fully  passionate and engaged about spreading knowledge and education regarding suicide awareness and have taken a lot home with me that I will now be implementing within my own Lions Den drop-ins." Lesley MacBain "Being part of BarberTalk Live was an incredible way to join both suicide prevention training and barbering. An amazing insight on how we, as barbers, can help end the stigma that comes with men’s mental health." Stacey Ayles "Education is key to development. It was a privilege to stand alongside the pride to deliver and take part in what can be only described as ground-breaking." Dan Davies  "Being able to get barbers in the Torbay area trained in suicide awareness is a major step towards zero suicide. It was emotional day and great to see so many people in one place with one goal. Together we are stronger." Mark Loftin