A wig-fitting service for people with hair loss is set to be reinstated after a stairlift was installed in the premises.
There was a storm of protest from local clients and supporters after Sheds Hairdressing in Dunfermline was told it had lost an NHS contract to provide hairpieces to people who had endured chemotherapy, alopecia and other conditions because the premises had a flight of stairs and were not disabled friendly.
But following alterations to the premises, the decision looks set to be reversed.
Salon director Douglas Barr is waiting for the contract renewal to be confirmed, which is expected to follow a reassessment of the premises next week.
Health Secretary Alex Neil met MSPs Helen Eadie, Claire Baker, Murdo Fraser and Annabelle Ewing to discuss the matter on Wednesday.
He said: “The meeting was positive and constructive, and we were able to clarify the position around the tender for wigs and hairpieces under the new procurement contract.
“It is absolutely clear that patients in Fife will continue to have access to these vital services through a range of outlets across the area.”
It is hoped Sheds will be confirmed as one of four Fife agents for the service.
There are two agents with premises in Tayport and Glenrothes, and one mobile agent.
Mrs Eadie said: “We think we got a good outcome. We are delighted it seems all the issues are being addressed and that Sheds in Dunfermline is going to continue to be an agency in Fife.”
Mrs Baker said: “I’m pleased that people in Fife will now have a range of choices open to them and will be able to access the service that best suits their needs.”
Mr Fraser added: “Common sense has prevailed and Sheds have rightfully had their contract reinstated.
“In what is often a cancer sufferer’s lowest ebb, Sheds provide a thoroughly worthwhile service that is conducted with the utmost care and respect.
“Employees of Sheds manage to transform what is often an upsetting process into an ego-boosting one for the individual patient.
“This is a victory for the local people who have petitioned their MSPs and have managed to return a vital service back to Dunfermline.”
Photo by David Wardle