FREE training is to be offered to all employees within the hair and beauty industry in North Wales in order to raise awareness and help them recognise the signs of domestic abuse.

Tackling domestic abuse is one of the key priorities under the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Plan and remains at the top of North Wales Police agenda.

Mike Taggart, Domestic Abuse Lead for North Wales Police said: “We have taken advice from Norfolk County Council who organised a Domestic Abuse conference following the death of Kerry McAuley, a domestic abuse victim who confided in their hairdresser regarding her abusive boyfriend.”

“Our aim is to provide training to hair and beauty salon owners, employees and students to help them to identify the signs of their clients being abused and what they can then do to help, by signposting them to the various support agencies available to them.

"Survivors of domestic abuse will also talk about their experiences.”

One in four women and one in six men will be affected at some time in their lives by domestic abuse.

On average two women are killed by their partner or ex-partner every week in England and Wales.

With police forces in England and Wales receiving over 100 calls relating to domestic abuse every hour.

The free seminar is open to all who work within the hair and beauty industry, salon owners, hairdressers, barbers and beauty therapists.

There will be some light refreshments available and a free domestic abuse information pack, that can be utilised within the salons, for everyone who attends.

The initial training session will take place within Rhyl Golf Club and will target hairdressing and beauty businesses located within Denbighshire and Conwy.

The first seminar will take place at Rhyl Golf Club, Rhyl Coast Road, Rhyl on July 8, from 10am to 1pm.

To book a place at the seminar email: strategicpvpu@nthwales.pnn.police.uk