In The Cut: Celebrating the Black barbershop as a shop for healing

By Macole Lannaman & Baillor Jalloh

On Tuesday 28th November 2023, Sheffield University's student union hosted a pop-up barbershop. Over a dozen students and members of the community were given free haircuts and line ups by three Black barbers from Fades and Top Chopper Hair Studio. The aim was to raise awareness of Black men's mental health and bring attention to the vital role that Black barbershops play in supporting mental health within the Black community in Sheffield.

The event was organised by Macole Lannaman, a PGR researcher in collaboration with the Centre For Equity at the University of Sheffield. The event not only celebrated and raised awareness about mental health, but also connected Black students to a significant communal space. SACHMA were also in attendance as they are another important organisation that addresses the health and social care needs of people of African and Caribbean descent.