Short Back & Sidewalks launches key services in Port Hedland

Short Back & Sidewalks (SBSW) continues its rollout in regional Western Australia, with the successful launch of two key services in the Pilbara town of South Hedland.

For one young girl at the Youth Involvement Council, it was her first ever haircut. After asking for her long hair to be cut to her shoulders she beamed and told the SBSW volunteer she was “so excited” about her new hairdo. 

The Town of Port Hedland has partnered with SBSW to collaborate with local service providers in the area. And along with support from Horizon Power and their corporate volunteering program, SBSW will grow throughout the town and East Pilbara to connect with vulnerable and marginalised members of the community with haircuts free of charge and free of judgement.

“Both organisations are offering more than just financial support,” said SBSW CEO Natalie Jenkins.

“They are working in a true partnership with us to create positive connections through the power of a haircut in Pilbara communities.

“We are really delighted and thankful to have their support.”

This year will see SBSW expand into remote Pilbara communities thanks to these valuable partnerships.

“This reminds me of my very first haircut.”

For a woman at the Bloodwood Tree Association service, it was more than just a haircut. It was an opportunity for her to connect, to have a conversation about growing up, and to feel like they belong. That is the power of a haircut.

SBSW has now launched in eight regional cities & towns in WA, across  the South West, Great Southern, Mid West, Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields-Esperance regions. 

The regional expansion is set to continue this year thanks to funding from the  Federal Government’s Department of Social Services and Lotterywest.