An innovative new project has been launched to support those who have lost their hair through cancer treatment.

Hairdresser Julie Waker, 51, has teamed up with St Luke’s Hospice to create Wig Bank in a bid to improve the quality of life for patients.

Julie said: “To buy a wig, even an NHS prescription one, can cost a significant amount of money and there are many people who simply cannot afford to. The stress of a cancer diagnosis and the side effects of chemotherapy can be far reaching.

“Due to hair loss, women especially can become isolated due to their loss of confidence in appearance, many shying away from going out and even see family members and friends. The Wig Bank aims to give them an affordable ‘new look’ whilst also supporting St. Luke’s Hospice.”

Unwanted wigs are donated to the Wig Bank where they are cleaned and conditioned to a professional standard before being passed on to people who have hair loss because of cancer treatment.

In return, Julie, who lives in Langdon Hills, is asking for a minimum donation of £15 to the hospice. Kathy Sutton, 61, from Thurrock, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2016 and developed secondary cancer in her lymph nodes.

She underwent surgery, followed by chemotherapy, reconstruction surgery and radiotherapy – completing her treatment in December 2016 and is now an advocate of the new Wig Bank.

She said: “On starting chemotherapy my hair loss was almost immediate. It started coming out in clumps and within almost a week I was completely bald.

“Although I knew it would happen I was not prepared emotionally for the effect it would have.

“Fortunately, as I knew Julie prior to becoming ill I contacted her and she soon sorted me out with a wig. I felt completely different and people who knew me well didn’t realise it wasn’t my own hair.”

The project launched on Saturday at St Luke’s Hospice in Basildon and was attended by Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock.

He said: “I was delighted to support the excellent work. I would encourage people to donate any unwanted wigs if you know of anyone who might benefit from its services, it would be good to put them in touch.”

Donations can made at the hospice or the George Hurd Centre where Julie has a salon. To make a personal appointment call Julie on 07941 396992.