11th Aug 2022
The current crisis has left a huge number of our industries struggling and the beauty industry has been no exception. As the government have relaxed guidelines, beauty services have remained on hold. Whilst the governments restrictions are being guided by increasing evidence and scientific reports, the continued delay in face-to-face treatments is a devastating blow to the industry and causing a huge number of beauty businesses to question their future.
Skincare powerhouse Caroline Hirons launched an initiative “Beauty Backed” which is supported by other industry professionals, in an attempt to raise money for those who have been unable to perform their skincare/beauty services since March. The industry is predominantly made up of self-employed therapists, stylists and business owners, so a huge number found themselves ineligible for government support. This has left some without income for more than five months, with their return to work date still up in the air. Many are wondering if re-opening is viable considering that services will only be operating at a reduced capacity, with additional costs required for PPE and the appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures.
The initiative launched on the 3rd of August after Hirons hosted an Instagram live discussing the difficulties makeup artists, facialists and salon owners are facing after the Prime Minister delayed opening services. Hirons launched the petition and GoFundMe page to encourage the government to reopen the beauty industry or offer schemes/grants to those unable to return to business. In addition, there are now calls for the government to produce vouchers/discounts similar to the “Eat Out to Help Out” scheme in an attempt to recover the industry as quickly as possible and to prevent business closures. Last year it was reported the beauty industry contributed £28 billion to the UK economy and it provides 1 in 60 jobs for UK workers. The initiative is hoping to raise awareness about the importance of the beauty industry, which many believe has been ignored, despite its huge contribution to the economy and nation-wide employment figures. All money raised through the Go Fund Me page will be donated to the Hair & Beauty charity. This charity will offer financial support to those who are facing a difficult time as a result of the pandemic. Those who receive help will be provided with payments and grants to assist through these unprecedented times.
LET’S GET BEAUTY BACKED!
#LetsBackBeauty #BeautyBacked
The Go Fund Me total currently stands at £324,610.
The petition currently has 28,558 signatures.