Barrie-Stephen

Barrie Stephen Named First Sir Thomas White Loan Charity Patron

Barrie Stephen, one of Leicestershire’s most renowned business owners, has become the first-ever patron of The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity.

Now based at Friars Mill in Leicester city centre, the charity provided Barrie with one of its interest-free business loans 23 years ago to help him establish his first salon, which became the platform for continued growth, as Barrie Stephen Hair established itself as a household name across the county.

Today the owner of five salons across Leicestershire, in addition to Barrie Stephen Hair’s dual-brand, B-Styled, Barrie Stephen’s success in the business world, in addition to the hair and beauty industry, has been well-documented over the years. The Leicester native is now recognised as one of the leading hair designers in the country and been the recipient of a plethora of business and industry accolades, including Leicestershire Businessman of the Year. The salon group has also been named Best UK Local Salon on two occasions for its work within the community.

Providing loans which are completely interest-free to aspiring or developing business owners within Leicestershire and Rutland, The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity has helped thousands of entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 become self-employed, with Barrie Stephen Hair arguably one of the most recognised businesses to have benefited.

In 1996, Barrie applied to the charity for a loan to help transform a butcher’s shop in Anstey into a high-class boutique salon, with the vision to create a sophisticated and stylish set-up to rival the services of salons established in London.

In becoming a patron of The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity, Barrie is now keen to help spread the word of the support on offer to young people in the county, attending events to speak about his experience of working with The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity and his journey to success off the back of applying for a loan.

Barrie Stephen, Owner of Barrie Stephen Hair and Sir Thomas White Loan Charity Patron, said: “I was honoured to be asked to become the first patron of The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity. I didn’t need to think twice and the role is a perfect fit for me, because without the charity, I wouldn’t be in the position that I am today. I still have my business plan which formed part of my application, and the process of applying for my initial loan 23 years ago was amazing. I’m now excited to share my story with others who are contemplating engaging with The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity, as their support really can make a huge difference to anybody wishing to become self-employed or eager to make a first step in creating a business empire. I hope I can serve as an example of what is possible.”

David Howard, Chair of Trustees at The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity, added: “The charity is delighted to have Barrie become our first patron. His story is one that many people across Leicestershire are aware of, and The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity is proud to have played a small part in Barrie’s success, which showcases to current and prospective borrowers what is possible with drive, passion and the desire to succeed. Alongside our Sir Thomas White Loan Charity ambassadors, we look forward to having Barrie help us spread the word of the interest-free loans available to entrepreneurs across the county.”

For more information on The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity and support on offer to entrepreneurs aged over 18 and under 35 in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, please click here

Please visit www.barriestephenhair.co.uk for more information on Barrie Stephen Hair.

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