Coronavirus has often been called an “invisible threat”. But the damage it’s caused has been visible on our NHS heroes’ faces for months.
We’ve all seen the pictures of nurses and doctors staring directly into the camera after spending a dozen hours with PPE pressed onto their skin.
Tired eyes. Bruised cheeks. Thick, red rectangular imprints across the bridge of their nose.
By the end of their shifts, healthcare workers can look and feel like they’ve gone ten rounds with the virus.
After seeing these images of the exhausted key workers go viral, SKIN HQ saw a perfect opportunity to help. They elected to offer hydrating facials that soothe damaged skin.
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And, by way of thanks for all their hard work, NHS staff won’t be charged a penny.
Demand has been enormous, and thousands have already signed up to book an appointment at one of SKIN HQ’s five clinics across the UK.
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Founder Haroon Danis said: “When we went into lockdown, we wanted to do something to help the NHS heroes and key workers.
“We started to notice images of nurses and doctors with damaged skin from constant use of the PPE, and we knew what we could do.
“By offering free hydrating facials, we’re helping these workers get rid of all the dry skin and repair some of the damage left behind by PPE – which can be caused after working long hours in sweaty, humid conditions.
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“Our treatments help to ease some of the bruising and make people feel better both physically and mentally.”
More than 23,000 people have rushed to reserve a facial since the campaign was launched back in April.
“We’ve had such a really positive response,” Haroon tells us.
“It’s been really amazing for us to be honest, and all the team are really proud to be part of it.”
Over £1,380,000 worth of free SKIN HQ sessions have been allocated to NHS members so far – giving nurses and doctors the chance to recuperate from endless hours of brave work on the frontline.
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And Haroon has confirmed the offer is not stopping any time soon.
“We’re not taking it down; we’re not ending the campaign,” he tells us.
“If any NHS heroes want to join up, they can at any time. We just want to keep it going until this situation is all over.
“All you need to do is go to our website and it’s right there on the homepage. Fill in your details and we will call you back to arrange a time.”
SKIN HQ
The very first SKIN HQ was set up right here in Manchester on St John Street, and the clinic has gone from strength to strength ever since – having expanded nationwide (to London, Liverpool, Birmingham and Bradford).
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Interest in their franchising scheme has also surged during lockdown – with inquiries flooding in from both medical professionals and those in sectors affected by the financial crisis.
To learn more about the amazing work SKIN HQ are doing, head over to their website.
News
Manchester Town Hall is FINALLY taking wedding and events bookings for the first time since 2018
Emily Sergeant
A new era is on the horizon, as Manchester Town Hall has announced that it’ll be finally taking bookings for weddings and events once again.
That’s right… for the first time since it closed its doors to the public for what is the UK’s biggest restoration project to date back in 2018, one of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks is soon set to welcome its first weddings and events in a decade – with bookings for the city’s most romantic address now open once again.
Manchester Town Hall has stood at the centre of civic life in the city since 1877, and for generations, couples have exchanged their vows within its walls.
Now, as it enters the home stretch of its restoration, the Grade I-listed building is gearing up to kickstart weddings and corporate events from January 2028.
Set reopen to the public next year, first up will be a series of celebratory reopening events – which are yet to be announced – before a phased approach will then allow the building and teams to be fully prepared to host commercial events again from 2028.
Manchester Town Hall has announced that it’s finally taking wedding and events bookings for the first time since 2018 / Credit: Supplied
From its grand architecture and soaring stained glass windows, to sweeping staircases that offer the perfect ‘just married’ photo opportunities, this one-of-a-kind venue gives couples the opportunity to combine the romance and grandeur of a historic setting with the energy of a city centre celebration.
Inside the restored building, you’ll find The Great Hall, which is a magnificent setting with striking architectural character, as well as The Conference Hall, The Banqueting Hall, and The Reception Room, all of which offer equally characterful spaces that are perfect for private dinners, ceremonies, or corporate events.
The Lord Mayor’s Parlour is one of many settings overlooking the newly reopened Albert Square, while various elegant reception areas provide the perfect location for drinks and arrival moments.
“Our Town Hall is a real Victorian masterpiece and we’re looking forward to sharing it with the public once again,” explained Cllr Garry Bridges, who is Leader of Manchester City Council, as bookings finally open up this week.
“It’s a special building which belongs to the people and it’s great that they will be able to celebrate important landmarks in their lives, such as marriage, in its spectacular setting.
“The Town Hall is full of history. Here’s to many more stories being written within its walls.”
Want to be one of the first people who gets married or hosts an event at Manchester Town Hall once it reopens in 2028? You can enquire about booking here.
Featured Image – Supplied
News
Bolton personal trainer charged with sexual offences relating to multiple women
Emily Sergeant
A personal trainer from Bolton has been charged with sexual offences relating to multiple women.
Following an extensive investigation into alleged crimes in the Bolton area, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has confirmed that Payam Postchi, of Greenway Close in Bury, has been charged with one count of sexual assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual assault by touching.
The charges relate to three women, according to GMP.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Sharples, from GMP’s Bolton district, explained: “Following an initial investigation by officers, we have secured three charges in relation to alleged sex offences committed at a business in the Bolton area.
“We understand that the nature of this kind of investigation may cause anxiety, but I want to stress that all appropriate work is being completed, with the women involved being supported throughout the process.”
Postchi, who is a British national of Iranian origin, appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates court yesterday (30 September 2026).
Detectives are now urging the public to ‘avoid speculation’ during active criminal proceedings, but are still appealing for any relevant information.
DCI Sharples concluded: “If anyone thinks they have any information or otherwise has concerns in relation to the case, I would urge them to come forward.
“Additionally, I would remind people that criminal proceedings are now active and to avoid speculation which could impact the ongoing work.”
The Manc -
23rd June 2020 
