Domestic abuse survivor takes back control with hair shave for Hartlepool support group

Rachel Story bravely had all of her hair cut off to raise money and awareness for the Womens Wellbeing Club which has been a great help to her since joining.

She said it was her way of reclaiming control after surviving domestic abuse and letting others know there is support available.

So far, Rachel has raised around £400 for the mental health peer to peer support group which meets every Tuesday at The Annexe centre in Wharton Terrace.

And her lopped locks are going to the Little Princess Trust to make real hair wigs for children and young people.

Rachel said: "Within two hours of being in Womens Wellbeing Club, the ladies have a wealth of personal experience they were happy to share, to help me.

“Dawn Smith, a director of the Hartlepool club, found me another lady who may be able to help with my eating, and another lady from group who is helping me with my past domestic violence.

"I couldn't be more grateful. The reason I have chosen to shave my hair is its mine, I own it, it shows in my mind I have control, which spouts from previous domestic violence; my personal payback, something my ex wouldn’t want me to do.

“My hair is my hair to do as I please, it’s hopefully showing myself strength too that I'm now in control of me.”

Womens Wellbeing Club opened in January and is run by women for women.

They offer support for a whole range of issues linked to mental health including depression, eating disorders, loneliness, marriage and divorce, parenting, bereavement and domestic abuse.

Dawn said of Rachel’s hair shave: “I think it’s amazing and very inspiring. She’s done it to break away from her past so it’s a big step for her.

"Three ladies have been in touch as a result of seeing her story.”

Hairdresser Beverley Scurrah did the honours and the group presented Rachel with a pamper box.

The group meets every Tuesday from 6pm till 8pm. See their Facebook page for more details.

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