Ashley-Marie Higgins, a lifelong resident of Failsworth, Oldham, has undergone a heartwarming transformation of her salon, My Luscious Locks on Alder Road, into a sanctuary for children grappling with hair loss. With a long-standing career as a hairdresser specializing in hair loss solutions, Ashley-Marie has transitioned her salon into a haven of compassion and care, rekindling the confidence of young individuals navigating hair loss.
As she interacted with her clients, Ashley-Marie began to realize the dearth of accessible options for children coping with hair loss, an issue that was oftentimes both traumatic and isolating. In 2018, Ashley-Marie embarked on a transformative journey, fitting new hair for a child and a teenage girl. The profound positive impact she observed became her catalyst to establish a haven for these young souls.
Dubbed “Little Lady Locks,” the charity became officially registered in 2021. Over the span of three years, Ashley-Marie has seamlessly intertwined her hair loss service for children with her regular salon appointments. At the heart of Little Lady Locks lies the repurposing of human hair donations and recycled extensions, meticulously crafted into bespoke wigs, hair systems, and various hair accessories. Each creation is imbued with the unique preferences and desired aesthetics of the young recipients.
Eager to further her philanthropic endeavors, Ashley-Marie took a significant step in her journey this month by melding her salon services with the charity’s mission. Her mother has contributed her time as a volunteer, while the salon staff, including hairdressers and nail technicians, pay to rent the space. This groundbreaking model not only facilitates the charity’s operation but also empowers clients visiting the salon to contribute to its noble cause.
To commemorate the launch of this transformative amalgamation, the salon celebrated a grand opening, graced by MTV’s ZaraLena Jackson, an ambassador for alopecia. As the pink salon premises reverberated with a renewed purpose, Ashley-Marie’s vision materialized before the community’s eyes.
The charity now extends a heartfelt invitation to the public, urging them to donate their hair or hair extensions and witness the metamorphosis of their contributions into wigs, headbands, and hats for young girls grappling with hair loss. The opportunity to become a ‘hair fairy,’ amplifying awareness, collecting donations, and raising funds, beckons individuals to partake in this impactful endeavor. Furthermore, local hairdressers and salons are encouraged to join forces with the charity, fostering a network of compassion.
In a crescendo of compassion, Little Lady Locks is poised to host a charitable ball at The Midland Hotel in September, channeling the proceeds toward vital fundraising. Attendees are invited to don “diamonds and dickie bows” for an evening of spirited philanthropy, marked by live entertainment.
