People / charity

Charity head shave raises over £1000

By Ella Kemp  Tuesday May 23, 2017

While it can seem like excess, a superficial addition, the way we present ourselves physically can define how others see us, and how we see ourselves. New clothes, new shoes, new hair – it all adds up to a certain identity.

To raise money for charity Off The Record, Spin Coombs let go of what became an inherent part of her identity when she shaved off her dreadlocks.

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On her fundraising page, Spin explains that the hairstyle that was meant to be temporary grew to be part of who she was – since 2006, her dreadlocks had been going strong.

The noteworthy haircut becomes more poignant in honouring Spin’s late friend Stef, who took his own life in May 2011. Since then, Spin has aimed to mark the anniversary of his death in a positive way.

Following a charity bike ride for Temwa last year, Spin partnered with Off the Record to raise money as she shaved her head. Off the Record is a charity focused on young people’s mental health and wellbeing, supporting the empowerment of young people, and promoting positive mental health and resilience.

The charity was incredibly supportive of Spin’s project – Liam McKinnon, head of communications, said: “Everyone at OTR is totally bowled over by what Spin has done. It was a huge thing for Spin to lose the dreads after so long, and we’re honoured that she has chosen OTR to receive the proceeds. It was a really moving afternoon at OTR and we can’t thank Spin enough!”

Spin’s head shave raised a grand total of £1,453 for Off The Record, which will contribute towards helping young people in and around the city.

 

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