It is long overdue but with 15 years of long, luscious curly hair and with a newborn on the way, it is time for the curls to go (before it starts to disappear on its own). Having given it a lot of thought during the copious amount of spare time that has been afforded to me due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation, I decided that I could use it as an opportunity to raise some much-needed funds for a local charity. After exploring a number of different and deserving charities, I decided to donate any and all money raised to Bloom, a project run by One Church Brighton. Below is information about the cause and what it offers to young people.

One Church Brighton has been working with people from across Sussex who live on the margins of society, supporting the homeless and vulnerably housed, low-income families, unemployed people, disenfranchised youth and seniors at risk of isolation, among others since 2011. We offer these services regardless of age, background or beliefs.

Bloom developed out of the barista training programme, ProBarista and is currently led by one of the young people who graduated from the Pro Baristas training programme. Bloom offers drop-in sessions alongside the training programme. The Bloom programme features a popular drop-in that attracts hard-to-reach youth, accredited barista training, soft skills development, one to one mentoring, and customer facing work experience. Bloom is designed for young people in tough places who face multiple barriers preventing them from developing and specialises in unemployed youth. Not only does this create employment opportunities, Bloom has become a place of safe and accepting community for many young people looking to escape dysfunctional social circles. Upon graduation of the programme, participants are better equipped both socially and technically for reintegration to society. Drop in sessions are run three times per week, in central Brighton.

Below is a quote from a graduate of the scheme:

“I feel as I come here with open arms and have made friends I can be open with. Keep doing what you guys are doing because you help so many people especially me through the years.”

If you are able to donate any money to this cause then please do, however, please don't despair if you are unable to do so at this moment in time. A donation of any size will go a long way to help make a difference to a wonderful local charity.

I will be aiming to get a hair appointment around mid-August. If anyone has any recommendations for a decent barber then please let me know.