A cut above – dementia-friendly barber visits Cairdean House

Home news

Apr 12, 2019

Residents at Cairdean House were treated to a special trim from a dementia-friendly barber. 

Cairdean House welcomed Martin Murphy, the Football Barber, to give residents a haircut with a difference. 

Martin, an avid football fan himself, has created a barber experience that puts those living with dementia at ease. In addition to playing old music, he brings a memory box filled with Scottish football memorabilia, including some items related to the historical Hearts-Hibs rivalry, taking residents back to their younger years. 

Stewart, a resident at Cairdean House and lifelong Hearts fan, was one of the first to benefit from Martin’s services, to mark his wedding anniversary. 

Gillian Goodall, home manager at Cairdean House, said: “It was wonderful to have Martin join us at the home. Many residents here take huge pride in their appearance, including Stewart, who celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary on the day. Martin’s football memorabilia also created a sensory experience that brought back lots of memories for residents, not only making them look better but making them feel better, too. 

“Residents all commented how much they enjoyed having their hair cut by Martin and reminiscing about old football rivalries – Stewart was really pleased with his new look and thought he looked handsome! We hope Martin will come back to Cairdean House soon.”