Silent Cuts: an inclusive hairdresser open now at 11 Scotch Street, Downpatrick
Downpatrick now welcomes Silent Cuts, a brand-new specialist hairdresser designed to support people with learning disabilities and/or autism. It’s the first of its kind in the South Down area.
Located on Scotch Street, right beside the well-known bronze statue of The Silent Dog, the salon is opened its doors to the public on 29 September 2025.
There is easy parking close by but blue card holders can park outside the door.
Silent Cuts is the first commercial enterprise of its kind in the area, created by Mainstay DRP* to make hairdressing a more inclusive and empowering experience.
Many people with learning disabilities and autism struggle to access mainstream salons due to sensory sensitivities and communication barriers.
Silent Cuts has been designed to change that and make getting their hair done a more user-friendly experience.
The colour scheme in green is a soothing colour for autistic people and also the floor is a neutral grey again not over-stimulating.
The salon will offer:
• Sensory-friendly appointments with quiet spaces, dimmed lighting, and minimal distractions.
• Flexibility and choice, such as opting out of small talk, bringing comfort objects, choosing radio on or off, and sitting in a chair without a mirror.
• Fully trained stylists experienced in supporting clients with additional needs.
• One-to-one appointments available on Monday and Tuesday for clients who prefer a calm, private environment.
Speaking about the new venture, Sarah-Jane Mowbray, CEO of Mainstay DRP, said: “Silent Cuts is more than just a hairdresser.
“It’s about dignity, equality, and ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy everyday experiences.
“Everyone, male or female, young and old, are welcome to try out salon for neuro-divergent individuals.
“We are proud to bring this innovative project to Downpatrick and have looked forward to welcoming our first clients to the salon.”
There are two hair stylists who attend to the clients and they have over 60 years of hair styling and doing hair cuts between them.
Hair stylist Brenda Devlin said: “Already we have had clients through our doors and everything is going well.
The project also brings economic and community benefits to Downpatrick, creating new local employment opportunities and, in future phases, offering volunteer placements, training, and work experience for neuro-divergent individuals.
“Both myself and Olwyn McCall, the other stylist, have autistic members in our families so we also have that background too which helps us to manage the service we provide.”
Also, hair stylist Olwyn McCall said: “We do provide one-to-one appointments Monday’s and Tuesdays which some people may prefer, but although we are appointment based, we can take people in off the street if they haven’t made an appointment.
“We understand that not all neuro-divergent people like getting their hair done and we patiently work with this.
“I personally have worked with Mainstay DRP for over six years and I have gained a lot of experience in that time.”
Silent Cuts will be open by appointment only, five days a week, with both standard and sensory-friendly slots available. Bookings will open online ahead of the launch.
Opening times are: Monday to Saturday 9-5.30pm (and closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.
* Mainstay DRP is a Downpatrick-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and/or autism through residential care, supported living, day services, and short breaks.
For over 30 years they have worked alongside individuals and families to create lives filled with purpose, belonging, and opportunity.
Guided by their core values of empowerment, community, compassion, and championing ability, Mainstay is committed to building an inclusive future where everyone can thrive.
Silent Cuts,
11 Scotch Street,
Downpatrick.
Phone: 07592522848. You can also book on What’sApp or on Facebook, or on Fresha.
