January 2021

Sadly, it seems like the restrictions and effects of the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic will be with us for some time to come as we enter a third national Lockdown. The safety of our community is paramount to us and we need to continue to take appropriate and responsible action. With this in mind, the charity has taken time to reflect on the changing situation and we want to use this opportunity to update you on how we will be going forward in 2021 in relation to our Support aim.

NEW online support group meetings

The Alopecia UK staff team have introduced new online support group meetings, providing an opportunity to meet others, share experiences of hair loss and talk about ways you can manage your alopecia. We will be hosting both daytime and evening meetings. You can find out dates of upcoming meetings, including how to register for them here. 

Alopecia UK face-to-face support group meetings – cancelled until further notice. 

Our face-to-face support group meetings continue to be cancelled. We will continue to monitor the situation with social distancing and hope to reintroduce local meetings as soon as we are able to. 

Please continue to contact your Support Group Lead via their webpages, as many are providing online meetings, and extra phone call and email support. 

Further support options currently available

Support can be accessed online via our private Facebook groups. Our main Facebook group is a great source of peer support. Our Products & Services Chat group is brilliant for finding tips and advice about practical options relating to alopecia, such as wigs, headwear and permanent make up. Our Parents’ Chat group is a dedicated space for parents of children with alopecia to support each other and our Men’s Chat group provides a safe space for men to share their experiences with each other.

In addition, if you are struggling with your alopecia and need to speak to someone, you can contact the AUK office between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

We still need your support more than ever before

COVID-19 continues to have a devastating impact on fundraising events, with the majority of fundraising activities and events still unable to take place. There are still some ways to fundraise for Alopecia UK whilst adhering to current restrictions. Read more about ways you can support us during this challenging time here. A simple (and HUGELY appreciated) way to support Alopecia UK is to set up a regular monthly donation. Monthly gifts provide Alopecia UK with regular income which enable us to continue our work to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia. Set up your regular donation here. 

Further helpful links

If you are have questions about COVID-19 and Alopecia Areata, you might wish to read our news item which includes thoughts from two alopecia experts, Dr Matthew Harries and Professor Andrew Messenger. Read more here.

If you have concerns that you are experiencing hair loss after COVID-19, you might be interested in reading a further commentary provided by Professor Andrew Messenger. Read more here.

If you are experiencing anxiety as a result of the challenging times we are living in, you may find it helpful to read this blog post from Alopecia UK Support Project Manager, Dr Kerry Montgomery. Read more here.