Bury cancer survivor donates hair to Little Princess Trust

A man from Bury who beat stage two cancer is turning a personal milestone into a public act of generosity: he is donating his hair to The Little Princess Trust and fundraising to support the charity’s work. The decision to give hair after treatment has become a meaningful way for people affected by cancer to offer solidarity with young people who experience medically related hair loss.

Why hair donations matter

Hair donation is more than a physical gift. For children and young people who lose their hair through chemotherapy or other medical conditions, receiving a wig made from real hair can restore a sense of self and normality at a vulnerable moment. Charities such as The Little Princess Trust rely on donated hair and public fundraising to create and provide wigs free of charge, and to support families while a young person undergoes treatment.

How the donation process works — practical steps

If you’re inspired to donate your hair, the process is straightforward but has a few important rules to ensure the hair can be used. The Little Princess Trust and similar organisations have clear guidelines to make sure donated hair meets the standards required for wig-making.

• Check minimum length: most charities require a minimum length (for The Little Princess Trust this is usually around seven inches/17.5cm) measured from the tip to the root.
• Prepare the hair: wash and dry it thoroughly before cutting; it should be clean and completely dry to prevent mildew during storage or transit.
• Secure hair: hair is typically tied into a plait or ponytail before being cut to keep the cut ends together.
• Follow charity instructions: fill out any donor forms and post or drop off the hair according to the charity’s guidance — some charities now accept hair at designated salons or by post.
• Consider fundraising: many donors pair a hair donation with a fundraising page or local collection to support the charity’s wider work.

Preparing your hair and choosing the right cut

Deciding on the right cut is a matter of personal style and the amount of hair you can spare. If you have long hair and want to donate a large length, arrange the hair into neat plaits; shorter donations are equally valuable if they meet the minimum length. Speak to a trusted stylist who is familiar with hair donation procedures — many salons in the UK volunteer to take part and will cut and package hair correctly.

After the cut, you may experience emotional responses — for some, cutting long hair after treatment or as a show of support can be cathartic. If you’re recovering from cancer yourself, discuss timing with your medical team; while donating after regrowth is common, your health and wellbeing should always come first.

Fundraising and community support

Combining a donation with fundraising amplifies the impact. Money raised helps charities cover the cost of making wigs, clinical support services and outreach for families. You can create a fundraiser page on popular platforms, ask local businesses to sponsor you, or organise small community events. Personal stories — including those from survivors — are powerful in encouraging donations and awareness, but you should only share details you’re comfortable making public.

• Set up a simple online fundraiser and explain why you’re donating.
• Use local networks — social media, community groups and workplace mailing lists — to spread the word.
• Partner with a salon: some salons will promote the fundraiser locally in exchange for hosting a donation day.

What this means for survivors and recipients

For someone who has survived cancer, donating hair can close a chapter and create a positive legacy. For recipients — children and young people who receive wigs — donated hair can make a profound difference to confidence and everyday life. That emotional exchange, where one person’s recovery helps another through treatment, is at the heart of why charities like The Little Princess Trust exist.

Key Takeaways

• Donating hair provides real, tangible help: charities turn suitable real-hair donations into wigs for children and young people experiencing hair loss.
• There are practical rules to follow — minimum length, clean and dry hair, and secure packaging — so check the charity’s guidance before cutting.
• Pairing a donation with fundraising increases impact by covering wig-making and support services; simple online pages and local appeals work well.
• Survivors often find donating meaningful, but medical recovery and wellbeing should be prioritised; seek medical advice if unsure.
• Local salons can be helpful partners for the cut and for promoting donation days in the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can receive wigs from The Little Princess Trust?
The charity provides wigs and support to children and young people who have lost hair through cancer or other medical conditions. Each charity has eligibility criteria which are published on their website.

Is all hair accepted?
Not always. Hair must meet minimum length requirements and be free from excessive chemical damage. Hair that has been heavily bleached or that is too short may not be suitable for wig-making but could be accepted for alternative uses by some organisations.

Can someone who has had cancer donate hair?
Yes — many survivors choose to donate once they have sufficient regrowth and feel well enough. It’s sensible to discuss timing with your medical team to ensure you’re fit and that the hair meets the charity’s health and safety criteria.

Do I need to cut my hair at a salon?
You don’t have to, but many donors prefer a professional cut to ensure the hair is prepared correctly. Some salons volunteer to take part in hair donation schemes and can help package it for postage.

How can I fundraise alongside a hair donation?
Create an online fundraising page, share your story on social media, and reach out to local press or community groups. Small events, sponsored challenges and asking for donations in lieu of gifts are all effective approaches.