The Grafton Barber Launches Ireland’s First Autism-Friendly Barber Shop and Sensory Room

The Grafton Barber, Ireland’s leading family-owned chain of barber shops, is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever autism-friendly barber shop and dedicated sensory room, located at 170 Walkinstown Road, Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 FXK8.

This groundbreaking space was designed by Amanda Masterson, owner of The Grafton Barber Walkinstown branch and a mother to a child with autism. Amanda’s firsthand experience with the sensory challenges many children face during everyday routines inspired her to create a calm, inclusive environment tailored to neurodiverse children, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

“A basic haircut can be a really overwhelming experience for many children and adults with autism and sensory sensitivities – so I truly welcome this new sensory barber in Walkinstown. It’s thoughtful, inclusive and long overdue. I want to sincerely congratulate Amanda Masterson and her team at Grafton Barber, Walkinstown for leading the way and creating a space where everyone can feel comfortable, understood and respected,” said Catherine Ardagh, TD, in support of the initiative.

According to the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with ASD — a condition nearly four times more common in boys than girls. Creating sensory-friendly spaces like this one is a crucial step toward making everyday experiences, like a trip to the barber, more accessible for all.

The Day Dreamers Sensory Room will officially open to the public on Thursday, 17th April at 11:00 AM, with families invited to visit, explore the space, and meet the team. Appointments begin Friday, 18th April, and can be booked through Booksy.

This launch marks the first of many steps The Grafton Barber is taking to lead the way in inclusive, sensory-aware grooming — with plans already in motion to roll out similar rooms across other locations nationwide.

About The Grafton Barber

Founded in 1961, The Grafton Barber is a proudly family-owned Irish business with barbershops across the country. Renowned for its tradition, professionalism, and customer care, the brand is now championing inclusivity by creating welcoming spaces for all — especially those with additional sensory needs.