HeadStrong is a free practical hair loss service available to anyone experiencing cancer related hair loss. The aim of the HeadStrong service is to offer practical support and information around hair loss due to cancer treatment. The HeadStrong service at Kilbryde Hospice is provided by Breast Cancer Care Scotland.

Losing your hair as a side effect of cancer treatment can be very distressing and can affect confidence, causing people to feel insecure and vulnerable. HeadStrong can help increase confidence and self esteem by providing practical techniques and information on coping with hair loss.

HeadStrong is delivered by specially trained volunteers on an individual appointment basis. Each HeadStrong appointment can last up to an hour and takes place in a welcoming and private environment. During a HeadStrong appointment, clients will have the opportunity to learn scarf-tying techniques, try various types of headwear (scarves, hats and hairpieces) as alternatives to wearing a wig, gain practical tips on hair and scalp care plus talk through any concerns about hair loss. Each client will also receive a free headscarf at their first HeadStrong appointment.

“I feel I have gained a lot more confidence in preparing myself for future hair loss and enjoyed learning alternative ways of wearing scarves”

“I received info on products available, practical advice, demonstrations and a chance to try things myself. Felt much better after attending. Great to talk to people who had experienced hair loss”

“Felt better about self and how to cope with total hair loss in the near future”

“Helped me to emotionally begin to accept hair loss and that others have gone thorough it too and been ok”