Inspiring Rooted in Confidence Hair Loss Workshop Empowers Women

Over 60 women attended an inspiring evening of support, education and empowerment at a Rooted in Confidence Hair Loss Workshop held at Swanky Coffee in Silverbridge on 14 September. 

The workshop was hosted by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Slieve Gullion District Electoral Area (DEA) Forum, with financial support provided by the Council’s Health Improvement Team and the Southern Health Trust’s multidisciplinary team within the Crossmaglen, Mullaghbawn and Newtownhamilton surgeries, with the event part of ongoing efforts to improve health, wellbeing and community inclusion across the district.

The evening brought together women experiencing hair loss who heard from leading specialists and were able to access trusted information and connect with others on similar journeys in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Guest speakers Bridgeen King and Maria McGuinness delivered informative presentations on the causes of hair loss, including menopause, alopecia, hormonal changes and medical treatments. Attendees also learned about local support services, funding opportunities and the latest hair replacement solutions, while live demonstrations of hair topper options proved particularly popular. 

Women were also able to view information stands from a number of organisations including the Southern Health Trust’s multi-disciplinary social work team, Breast Mates Newry, with the Council’s Health Inequalities Officer providing information on the organisation’s Take 5 Steps to wellbeing programme.

Goodie bags were presented, with many women commenting on the relaxed atmosphere and the reassurance of meeting others with shared experiences.

Councillor Aine Quinn, Chairperson of Slieve Gullion DEA said, "It was fantastic to see so many local people attend this important workshop. Hair loss can have a profound impact on confidence and emotional wellbeing and the turnout demonstrated just how much this type of support is needed within our community.

“The evening provided a safe and welcoming space where women could access expert advice, discover practical solutions and, most importantly, realise they are not alone. I would like to thank everyone involved in organising the event, particularly the speakers, exhibitors and all those who attended and helped make it such a meaningful and successful evening."