Wigs, headwear and accessories gifted to Wig and Scarf Room in Stalybridge to support cancer patients with hair loss

Wigs, headwear and accessories gifted to Wig and Scarf Room in Stalybridge to support cancer patients with hair loss

The Orange Foundation has donated a collection of wigs, headwear and accessories, including items owned by Emma Aindow-Gregory, to the Wig and Scarf Room in Stalybridge.  

For many, hair loss through cancer treatment is more than just a physical change. Hair loss can affect people’s identity, confidence and emotional well-being. Having access to quality wigs and headwear – especially in a safe and supportive environment – can make a huge difference. Through this donation, the items will find a new home with service users from the Wig and Scarf Room, helping those living with hair loss to feel more confident and more like themselves again.

About The Wig and Scarf Room

Based at Academy HQ in Stalybridge, The Wig and Scarf Room is a free, volunteer-led service offering wigs and headscarves to people experiencing hair loss. Established in 2023, the initiative was created by volunteers following the closure of a previous local cancer support charity. This ensured a vital service remained available to the community. 

The space is warm and welcoming, providing a place where people can try on wigs, receive guidance and simply talk to those who understand. Open weekly and supported by referrals from organisations such as Macmillan, the Wig and Scarf Room has quickly become a trusted and valued resource. 

Importantly, everything offered is free of charge, made possible through donations and the dedication of volunteers who bring both expertise and lived experience to their work. 

A donation that supports others

Emma’s wigs and headscarves, including items donated to The Orange Foundation from other families who have lost loved ones to cancer, will now become part of this compassionate offering, helping others feel like themselves again during what can be an incredibly stressful time. The Orange Foundation will also support the service by purchasing specialist shampoos, products and brushes.

Lead Volunteer Linda Yarwood said:

“I was absolutely thrilled to receive the donation from The Orange Foundation. The wigs are of such wonderful quality, and I can guarantee they’ll go to a good home and help someone live a better, more confident life while experiencing hair loss.

“Sarah, who I worked with many years ago, and I reconnected in 2019 when we were both being treated for breast cancer. When the original room had to close, we worked hard together to find new premises and create the space we have today.

“Sadly, Sarah passed away two years ago, and I promised her I would continue our work. Although it never feels like work at all because we love being able to help people.

“Thank you so much for including The Wig and Scarf Room in your great work – we’re very grateful.”

Find out more about the Wig and Scarf Room here or contact Linda on 07774 176194.