Overview

I cannot speak highly enough about this salon! I haven't had my hair cut in years and have had some unfavourable experiences in the past, this is the best salon I have been to! Karen seems to be a naturally very caring and nurturing person, this comes through in the service she delivers, she does not assume but is curious and ready to assist; nothing felt like a bother. The sinks here are brilliant as they adjust so that you can be sitting quite normally and the sink adjusts to you! A game changer when you have neck problems! Karen expressed she hadn't been able to get this set-up with chairs that move so for hair washing wheelchair users would need to transfer, however if not then you can stay in your wheelchair for your haircut. There is space to transfer from various sides and the chairs can also be moved around to help with this or for the wheelchair to go in. I chose to transfer as my wheelchair has a tall back with headrest. The COVID safety protocols really put me at ease, I could tell they value the safety and wellbeing of staff and clients, I will go into more detail about this below. There is a single chair at the top which is ideal for if you are getting your hair dyed and will be be in the salon for longer, you will have your own wee space! The staff all wore masks, and wore them properly! Karen really put me at ease, it was affordable, great parking, a lot of consideration has gone into access and supporting those with additional needs, the salon is spacious and accessible, good prices, and my hair looks fab! A very tidy haircut, delivered gently! Website: www.karenjameshair.com Instagram: KarenJamesHD

Transport & Parking

Before my appointment, Karen discussed the parking options and gave me really helpful advice on where to park. There is a parking there and there can be a space right on the pavement next to the salon as well. We parked in the disabled parking bays past the shops, however when I came out there were a lot of school kids to try and navigate through so next time I will park closer if possible.

Access

There is an access button to get in and out assisted, staff are also helpful with the door. It is step-free smooth entry into the premises and you enter into a wide space. There is a long sofa along the window for people to wait, however there was no one in at the same time as me and it seems during covid this may be needed less. Karen mentioned they support a woman who is deaf and it sounds like they are really thoughtful and work with the individual.

Toilets

Staff

I had been a bit apprehensive about going to get my haircut, even in non-COVID times this can be difficult due to accessibility and my neck weakness and I have never found a hairdresser/ salon that was and remained ideal. I booking with Karen James online (which was a really simple way of booking) and left a message about my additional needs and let them know that I would phone to speak to them. I phoned up and the staff had gotten my message and were so lovely, I got the sense they were a really good team and I felt very much reassured by this chat with Karen also. When there, Karen was one step ahead of me for anything that may be a challenge which really put me at ease as everything went smoothly and I didn't even need to ask! She asked me confidently and sensitively about transferring from my chair into other chairs; what I would prefer, how she could assist, and checked in with me periodically on how I was doing. She seemed like a very naturally kind and caring person and I felt I was in good hands. I could tell she cared for her team and that she has a wide knowledge and understanding of disability which helps make this a brilliant option for the disabled community. I felt really relaxed the whole time and I'm so happy to have found this wonderful place with wonderful people, perhaps I have finally found a keeper!

Anything else you wish to tell us?

On the website I first noticed a heading about COVID precautions where mask wearing is a must and they sterilise everything in-between clients. When phoning Karen also said that everything is now disposable (gowns, towels, etc), I could tell they take the safety of their staff and customers seriously. I got a message the day before which said to bring a mask, they temperature may be checked and if I was feeling unwell then to re-arrange. On entering there is hand sanitiser and the thermometer. I could see Karen wash her hands when she would switch from one thing to the next. There was no one else in at the same time as me but if there was I was told we would be kept at a good distance, and there is indeed space for this. I could tell that this isn't just 'following the rules' for this team, but that they value health, safety and wellbeing. Karen certainly seemed to genuinely care and strives to maintain safety for everyone. I felt very safe here and would definitely go back, I would highly recommend this salon for those who are vulnerable to COVID and those with disabilities.

Photos