The Lions Barber Collective is a unique and impactful organisation that was born out of tragedy but has since blossomed into a beacon of hope and support for those struggling with mental health issues. Founded by Tom Chapman Hon LLD in 2015 after the loss of a friend to suicide, the collective utilises the power of ta haircut to create a safe space for open and honest conversations about mental health.

Tom, a former Global Barber director and platform artist, gathered 30 top barbers to create a series of men’s haircut images that included messaging around mental health. Through conversations with his clients about this project, Tom discovered that many of them had been suffering, and that he had unknowingly helped them through difficult times simply by listening behind the barber chair. One of these conversations lead to a life saved which triggered the idea that Lions Barber Collective could be a lot more than a one off project.

Inspired by the positive impact he had on those in need, Tom decided to expand his efforts and create pop-up safe spaces where trained hair professionals could provide haircuts and engage in meaningful conversations about mental health. These pop-up barbershops/salons have been a hit at events ranging from live sporting events and music festivals to corporate gatherings, and have had a profound impact on those they serve.

The Lions Barber Collective is not just about cutting hair – it’s about saving lives, one haircut at a time. By empowering hair professionals with the skills and confidence to have conversations about mental health, the collective is making a real difference in communities across the country. With their presence at events big and small, the Lions Barber Collective is spreading awareness, breaking down stigma, and providing much-needed support to those in need.