A Kilmarnock barber who battled the grips of drug and alcohol addiction is now using his skills to support others with their recoveries.
Stephen Pratt worked tirelessly to transform his life after being “stuck in the gutter” with addiction.
The Kilmarnock Standard previously told how the 34-year-old is now an award-winning barber with his own business – Ace of Fadez barbers at Salon G in Onthank.
Now Stephen intends to use his barbering skills to support others with their drug or alcohol recovery by offering haircuts to those going for job interviews or other potentially life-changing appointments.
Stephen has teamed up with addiction support service Addaction who run a recovery centre in Kilmarnock.
Those using the service can be referred to Stephen who will offer them a haircut free of charge and a chance to talk openly about their experiences of recovery with someone who has been there first-hand.
“It was always in my plans to do something to help other addicts but I did not know how to go about it,” he said.
“I phoned Addaction and said if they have anyone who is going for a job interview they can send them to me for a free haircut and a chat.
“I can point them in the right direction and tell them about my own experience.”
Last year, Stephen won the best male grooming venue at the Scottish hair and beauty awards.
Through hard work and determination, he was able to transform his life and focus on his long-term goal of running his own successful business.
Speaking of his own battles with addiction, he said: “I went down the wrong road and learned some tough lessons.
“I had to be in the gutter to realise that I had to do something about it.”
With his barbering success now in full swing, Stephen is determined to help others.
He added: “For me this is not just about the money, I want to help others. This is what I’m passionate about.
“You are more likely to listen to someone who has taken that path themselves.
“It’s all about showing people that you have to be open-minded and honest.
“There’s a lot more to recovery than just the substance, it’s about changing your whole mindset.”
Chris Bermingham, manager of Addaction East Ayrshire, told the Kilmarnock Standard: “We were delighted to receive a phone call from Stephen. The people we support do not have a lot of money and might be on benefits and simply do not have the cash for a hair cut.
“It’s a real treat for people and helps with their self -esteem – a haircut can make you feel amazing.
“Having a chat with Stephen as well is great as he is someone who is in recovery and is now running his own business – he is a shining light in the community and it’s great for people to see someone like him.”
For more information, contact Addaction on (01563) 558777
