Local Barber Recognised for Pioneering Work with the Bexley Barbershop Project
JBF Cuts, and the driving force behind it Jon Fortuna, has been presented with a community award in recognition of its pioneering role in supporting the Bexley Barbershop Project. The Project is an initiative using trusted local spaces to promote mental wellbeing and early support.
Delivered by Mind in Bexley in partnership with the London Borough of Bexley’s Public Health Team, the Bexley Barbershop Project trains barbers to become Wellbeing Ambassadors. Through specialist training, barbers gain the confidence to have supportive conversations, recognise signs of poor mental health and signpost clients to appropriate help.
One of the earliest champions of the project was Jon Fortuna at JBF Cuts. Jon was among the first barbers in the Borough to recognise the unique position barbers hold within their communities and the positive impact everyday conversations can have on mental wellbeing.
Jon Fortuna being presented with his Kent Mental Wellbeing Award certificate by Mind in Bexley's Development Lead Simon Dolby
By embracing the project from the outset, Jon helped demonstrate how barbershops can become safe, non-judgemental spaces where people feel comfortable opening up. His leadership encouraged other local barbers to take part, helping the project grow and embed itself across Bexley.
Since its launch, the Bexley Barbershop Project has trained barbers and other personal care professionals as Wellbeing Ambassadors, enabling hundreds of meaningful wellbeing conversations across the Borough. The initiative has played a key role in reducing stigma, increasing awareness of mental health, and supporting people who may otherwise struggle to seek help.
The award presented to JBF Cuts recognises not only Jon Fortuna’s personal commitment, but also the wider role of local businesses in supporting community wellbeing. It highlights how small, everyday interactions can create meaningful change when communities work together.
Jon Fortuna said: “It is amazing to be awarded the Bexley Barbershop Ambassador Project award. I’m over the moon, but we’re just getting started and I’ve very excited to see where this project goes!”
Join the Wellbeing Ambassadors programme
Mind in Bexley continues to expand the Wellbeing Ambassadors project, inviting barbers, stylists, nail technicians and tattoo artists to join a growing network dedicated to supporting mental health through connection, compassion and signposting to support.
If you would like to find out more, please visit our Wellbeing Ambassadors page.
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