NEWS ( we have a separate section for COVID-19, click here..

(See COVID-19 tab in the menu for further updates)

This is a time of great uncertainty and many of you have been in touch asking what is the responsible approach to take in these unprecedented times. 

It is clear that all forms of social distancing are vitally important,  if we as a nation are to successfully fight this virus.

Sadly because of the very nature of our sector, we expect the impact of the virus to be  significant and salon owners, staff and those that are self-employed are looking for advice on what to do.  The situation is continually changing so  we recommend following the official links to get the most up to date information and advice. 

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The Government is reporting daily on the steps they are taking to fight the virus, protect the economy and support businesses and individuals.   On Friday it was announced that gyms and leisure centers had to close. Spas and massage services are included in this category.   This was followed soon after by another announcement that all beauty, nail and hair salons had to close., 

The Chancellor has announced an unprecedented package of concessions to help businesses get through this extremely difficult time, see the link below...

 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19 

The World Health Organisation (WHO)  have a wealth of information and advice on their website at 

www.who.int

To access further support for those affected by COVID-19

 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-for-those-affected-by-covid-19/support-for-those-affected-by-covid-19 

Colleagues at the NHBF have resources for businesses such as templates, posters etc https://www.nhbf.co.uk/coronavirus/ 

A petition has been created on behalf of the  hair and beauty industry to lobby the UK government for an economic hardship relief package to help  the industry recover from the impact of the pandemic. Everyone across the industry who fees  passionately about this is sharing it widely.  

https://www.change.org/supportuksalons

Habia/Skills Active have been working with industry experts and regulators nationwide to develop an updated suite of National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures. 

Initial research began in February 2019. Expert working groups of industry professionals  developed the standards for botulinum toxin type A,  dermal fillers  medium grade chemical  skin peels, mesotherapy, advanced micro needling, advanced electrocautery and dermaplaning procedures.

View the standard at

 https://www.ukstandards.org.uk/NOS-Finder#k=aesthetics 

'We have a debt of gratitude for the amount of voluntary contribution that industry specialists and regulators have come together to provide, ensuring the suite is compliant with regulations for elective non-surgical cosmetic procedure. There is a widespread desire to confirm the standards of practice expected in these modalities,  common to all four nations,  to promote public safety and a pathway for aesthetic practitioners and this suite provides the agreed standards of all relevant parties. ' 

This work supports the memorandum of understanding in place between Habia and the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners  (JCCP), bringing together a number of PRSB regulators and industry organisations to consolidate the recognition of the agreed practice standards in line with the Cosmetic Practice Standards Authority (CPSA) from which qualifications can be aligned.