Hairdressers love people. They have always cared about their clients and taken an interest in every part of their life. Hairdressers are often among the first to hear about the good times of life, such as births and weddings. They are also among the first to hear of illness and death in the family. Now, with the Salons Against Domestic Abuse Fund and the Cut It Out program, hair care professionals are taking an even more active part in the welfare of their clients.

The National Cosmetology Association, Clairol Professional and Southern Living At HOME have joined forces to launch a national campaign to increase awareness of and to stop domestic violence.

Tri-fold cards – about the size of a business card – are placed in salons to make everyone aware of the warning signs of domestic abuse and let women know the avenues open to then should they be victims.

The cards list important information about the

• signs that a partner may be abusive,
  
• what to do if you think you are in danger,
  
• what to do if your partner becomes violent.
  
• The toll free phone number for the National Domestic Violence Hotline is also on the card.

The cards are conveniently placed on stylist stations, reception desk or in the ladies room. They are small enough to be tucked inside a handbag or a pocket. These cards are labeled Cut it Out, Salons Against Domestic Abuse.

Domestic abuse is:

• a pattern of violent behavior committed by one partner against another in an intimate relationship.
  
• a pattern of controlling behavior that consists of physical, sexual, and/or psychological abuse or assaults.
  
• a learned pattern of behavior.

Domestic abuse can be found in all socio-economic areas, cultures, and races. The only common factor is that most abusers are male . (But remeber that most males are not abusers.) 97% of victims of domestic abuse are female and their abuser is male.

Look for the cards, as well as posters and brochures in the salons you visit. If you don't see them, tell your hairdresser about the program. You can find out more about the program at the Cut It Out website.
Do you need help now? Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline @ 800-799-7233.