A DEMENTIA-friendly barber has opened to give elderly men a clean shave, haircut and memories from their youth.

Customers will be able to get a traditional trim as music from their youth plays at the new barbershop in Fernhill House.

The Man Cave is the first of its kind in a UK care home and led by Tom Roberts, the owner of The Gentry Barbershop, a former Tony & Guy stylist, and the creator of Dementia Friendly Barbers.

The new barbershop features a traditional barber’s chair, music tailored to the residents' preferences, as well as the familiar smell of Old Spice and traditional aftershaves.

Residents who visit for a shave or a haircut can also sample a range of whisky, beers, and alcohol-free alternatives on offer.

Andrew McIntyre, general manager at Fernhill House, said:  “We are delighted to welcome Tom and his team to Fernhill House.

"Here at Fernhill, we’re committed to ensuring residents can live a fulfilling life, irrespective of their age or the conditions they live with.

"This specialist barbershop is a testament to our commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

"I’m confident that our residents will appreciate having a traditional barber on-site that is truly tailored to both their needs and wants.”

The service has previously been provided by Tom on a visiting basis at other care homes.

Cllr Alex Sinton, chairman of Wychavon council, chairman of Wychavon opened the barbershop today (December 13).

The initiative at Fernhill House is a permanent onsite addition and will be a complementary service for all residents as part of their all-inclusive package.

Tom Roberts, owner of The Man Cave, said: “I’m so pleased to have teamed up with Fernhill House to provide this service to the men in their care, allowing them to experience the familiarity of their younger days.

“In most homes, the men are often outnumbered by women, so having a barber does make a significant difference.

"It reminds gentlemen of what a clean shave and a good haircut feels like again, the familiar smells of the aftershaves they used as younger men, the music and the male company, reminding them of their younger years.”

Fernhill House is a part of the Berkley Care Group, the UK’s leading all-inclusive luxury care home provider for those wanting to live well and have the time of their later life.