THE XO BARBERS PROGRAMME
XO Barbers is the second venture from the charity Onwards & Upwards, which seeks to break the cycle of reoffending by creating jobs that change lives for good. We mean to prove that employing ex-offenders makes business sense, so shifting attitudes towards employing them.
To make this happen, at XO Barbers we run a barbering training programme which operates inside and outside prisons. We provide pastoral support on all sides, to help people into employment and rebuild their lives.
What is the XO Barbers Training Programme?
The XO Barbers training programme is a VTCT accredited, industry-recognised qualification in barbering.
What makes our programme different?
We’re high-energy, down-to-earth and strive to create a working environment where everyone feels valued, welcomed and encouraged.
Our trainees can get involved in a wide range of activities that make each day different. Whether it’s creative projects, joining events, or simply sharing a meal out together, our approach is about connection, growth, and having fun along the way. And, most importantly, our trainees walk away with a professional qualification to support them into future work.
Support during the course
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Weekly 1-to-1 coaching to develop communication, resilience, goal setting and leadership.
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Travel and lunch fully covered – to make sure we remove practical barriers for people turning up on time every day.
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Aspiration focused – we help people gain positive outcomes at the end of the course, by helping them transition into more training, volunteering or work.
Who is it for?
The training programme is open to anyone aged over 18, who has either a criminal record or is at risk of offending, whether they’ve been to prison or not. The person’s offence history must meet our eligibility criteria and is subject to risk assessment and licence conditions. If you are at all unsure about our eligibility criteria, please do get in touch.
How can I get involved?
To find out more about the programme or are interested in referring someone to join, please contact our Programme Lead.
If you’d like to support us, be that with your time, expertise or money, thank you and do get in touch to see how you can help.