There is a critical need to develop a skills and talent development pathway for hair and beauty professionals in Ireland, according to research funded by Image Skillnet.
It calls out a particular need to develop and deliver a Continuous Professional Development framework that supports those working in the sector.
The research was conducted by the Management Development Unit at the University of Limerick.
According to CSO data (2019), the industry employs 25,800 people, throughout 9,286 businesses, and is worth an estimated €2.6bn to the Exchequer. With new trends, technologies and techniques, this industry is ever evolving.
Image Skillnet Network Manager, Margaret O'Rourke Doherty said professionals within the Hair and Beauty industry are continually engaging in upskilling and talent development. "Recognition of learning through a formal CPD framework will help strengthen both the external and internal status and skillset of the industry and those working with in it," she said.
There were several key recommendations as a result of this research. Firstly, there is a real need for a sector wide CPD framework to enhance professional recognition.
Four pillars were identified to inform the development of a sector wide CPD framework: Technical Skills, Practical Skills, Business Knowledge and Health & Safety.
The research found that boosting professional recognition, which could address the skills shortage as the profession would be seen as a more attractive career choice.
It would also enable consumers to make more informed choices when choosing a professional service, and would endorse training providers, resulting in higher quality development opportunities which meet the needs of the industry.
During this research, the Covid 19 pandemic put the industry along with many others into chaos. However, this sector demonstrated its resilience and creativity.
The pandemic has also highlighted the significance of this industry to the emotional and psychological well-being of our society.
Siobhan Kennedy, author, and researcher from the University of Limerick said, "This research illustrates what we all know very well. The Hair and Beauty industry is undervalued. This investigation was as enjoyable as it was informative and contributes to the growing evidence that the sector deserves more recognition. There is a lot of energy within the industry, we have no doubt that this framework will become a reality."
