Hairdressers Get Government Toolkit to Help Spot Domestic Violence
A new initiative called De Luisterstoel gives hairdressers practical tools to recognise signs of abuse and start a conversation with clients. The pilot launches in Rotterdam before expanding to Friesland, and may be rolled out to other contact professions.
The Dutch government launched a new initiative on Wednesday to help hairdressers recognise signs of domestic violence and sexual abuse in their clients. The toolkit, called De Luisterstoel (The Listening Chair), was unveiled at the Nederlandse Kappersakademie in Rotterdam by Mariëtte Hamer, the government commissioner for sexual misconduct and sexual violence, together with Rotterdam mayor Carola Schouten.
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Why hairdressers
Hamer explained the reasoning: "Almost everyone goes to the hairdresser regularly. There is eye contact, and conversations often go further than the haircut. Precisely at those moments, signals of sexual or domestic violence can become visible, such as being startled, being very unkempt, suddenly wanting to change their appearance, or offhand remarks about a controlling partner. Small conversations can already make a big difference."
The commissioner noted that sexual violence within intimate relationships often remains invisible for a long time, with an average of 30 to 35 incidents taking place before a victim seeks help. The biggest barrier is breaking the silence, and hairdressers are well placed to open that first conversation.
What the toolkit contains
Hairdressers in Rotterdam received a toolkit containing signal cards explaining what signs to look for, and tips on how to start a conversation. The pack also includes referral cards with a QR code so clients can themselves find help organisations. Hairdressers also receive advice on when to seek help themselves, though this is not mandatory.
The Luisterstoel was also presented at the kappersakademie so that student hairdressers receive the toolkit as part of their training from the outset.
The research behind it
Research by Radboud University found that one in three hairdressers picks up signals from clients that something may be wrong, but feels uncertain about what to do with that information. The toolkit is designed to close that gap, giving hairdressers a clear framework for how to respond without requiring them to take on the role of a professional counsellor or social worker.
Training experts have consistently emphasised that hairdressers are not expected to solve the problem. Their role is to listen, ask whether they can do anything, pass on the number of a support organisation, and follow up at the next appointment. Research shows that victims in violent situations often wait between five and twelve years before seeking help, meaning early recognition by a trusted regular contact can matter significantly.
The pilot and what comes next
The pilot begins in Rotterdam and will subsequently be expanded to Friesland. The initiative is also exploring whether nail stylists and physiotherapists can be included in future rollouts, as they share a similar dynamic of regular, close and personal contact with clients.
Hamer said the ultimate aim is for not only hairdressers but multiple contact professions to work with De Luisterstoel, building a broader network of people able to recognise and respond to signs of abuse. Rotterdam mayor Schouten called hairdressers "an important partner" in tackling domestic and sexual violence in the city.
