PCHA's 'Groom Room' boosts residents self-esteem

Published by Jon Land for Genesis Housing Group Limited in Housing

The opening of a hairdressing salon and foot treatment room at PCHA’s Ernest Harriss House in West London, was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on  August 20.

After consultation with their tenants, staff at this PCHA sheltered housing scheme in Elgin Avenue converted a spare room to create the much-anticipated ‘Groom Room’.

Those with mobility issues will particularly benefit from this facility, which aims to boost residents’ health and self-esteem.

The salon received donations and support from Genesis Community, The Resident Involvement Team, PCHA’s Supported Housing Department, Morrison Services and Ernest Harriss House Silver Club.

Mrs Dingle, a resident at Ernest Harriss House, suggested the name ‘The Groom Room’ for the salon. She said: “The hairdressing salon is wonderfully accessible. It has created a great atmosphere here and we’re all really pleased.”

Pam Lockley, Managing Director of PCHA (part of Genesis Housing Group), said: “This initiative is an excellent example of how an innovative idea can bring so many benefits to older residents – both here and in the wider community.

"It’s a pleasure to launch this scheme which is clearly very popular with its easy access and great atmosphere."