Minnie Me’s

Having a haircut is a regular necessity for many people, a manicure perhaps a more occasional treat. But both can be an ordeal for those with mental health needs or neurodivergent conditions including ADHD and autism. 

With this in mind, Antonia-Michelle Lever has opened Minnie Me’s salon in Castle Cary, backed by mental health charities MIND and the National Autistic Society.

“I wanted the freedom to work for myself rather than other people,” she says, “and saw a window of opportunity because no one else was offering what I do, catering for people with neurological conditions such as ADHD, autism or OCD.”

Having worked as a stylist for seven years, Antonia was inspired by her own experience and has been open about her own mental health difficulties.

“Just being in a salon environment can be daunting for them,” she explains. “It always pays to ask whether someone is happy for you to touch them or be in their personal space; whether they like lights and sounds, or not.

“I book out enough time to be with them and make them comfortable, so it isn’t a big scary experience.”

Requirements differ from client to client. For those who don’t like noise, Antonia will reserve the salon for that appointment, so the customer is alone. Some will visit the salon several times to get acquainted with their surroundings before even booking a treatment.

Silent appointments are also on offer. These might seem like a dream to anyone who struggles with small talk at the hairdresser’s but are a serious consideration to many neurodivergent customers.

“Some wear earplugs, others might feel more comfortable with talking after a few appointments,” says Antonia. “I let the client lead.”

Many of her customers are children, who have plenty of delights in store: a designated station decorated with pictures of zoo animals, a glitter lamp and fibre-optic lights, and a box of toys to keep them occupied.

“A lot of parents with autistic children have told me they are not allowed to take them to other salons, because their kids don’t behave the way others do. I’m happy for them to come here.”

Friendly, well-behaved dogs are also welcome. “I have lots of pets, and I know they can make people feel more at ease – whatever makes the whole process less stressful.”

Pointed in the direction of the Start Up Loans programme by a family friend, Antonia borrowed £6,000 from the programme via Business Support Partner GC Business Finance.

“Having got the doors open as quickly as possible, I had to work hard to complete renovations. The loan enabled me to decorate, do the flooring and buy new chairs – to make it a nice environment.”

It would appear Antonia’s instinct was on the money. “It’s been very, very busy. People have said they’ve been waiting for something like this.” Prices are kept reasonable “so everyone is able to afford a haircut”. Best of all, a chat, cuppa and a listening ear in a safe space is completely free of charge.