In the heart of London’s Wortley Village, a unique beauty sanctuary is making waves in the city’s LGBTQ+ community. They Spa, founded by esthetician Hannah Hewitt, is redefining the self-care experience by prioritizing inclusivity and gender-affirming services. Unlike traditional spas, They Spa is designed to cater specifically to the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, offering a safe haven for self-expression and personal care.
The Birth of an Inclusive Beauty Space
Hannah Hewitt’s journey to opening They Spa began during her time in esthetician school. She noticed a significant gap in the industry for non-binary and transgender individuals. ‘I found there were services dedicated specifically for men or specifically for women,’ Hewitt explained. This observation sparked the idea for a beauty space that would be truly inclusive where clients of all gender identities could feel comfortable and accepted.
They Spa first opened its doors in 2026 and has since moved to a shared beauty space in Wortley Village. The spa offers a range of services, including manicures, facials, and waxing, but with a unique focus on client comfort and privacy. Hewitt has exclusive hours where she is the only practitioner in the building, ensuring that clients can receive services without the worry of being seen or judged by others.
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment
Privacy and safety are at the core of They Spa’s mission. Clients can request to close the windows and blinds for increased privacy during their services. This level of discretion is crucial for many LGBTQ+ individuals who may face judgment or discrimination in traditional beauty settings.
Denise Copeland, co-founder of Wortley Pride and a regular client at They Spa, highlights the importance of such a safe space. ‘There’s certain people in our community that need their privacy for various reasons,’ she said. Copeland has also spoken with other LGBTQ+ Londoners who have sought out safe beauty experiences, emphasizing the need for more inclusive spaces like They Spa.
The Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community
They Spa has become a vital resource for transgender and non-binary Londoners. Hewitt explains that the spa provides a space where clients can use their chosen names and pronouns, which they might not be ready to use outside of this environment. ‘We can chat about things that they might not necessarily have a big community of people to talk about these things,’ Hewitt said.
The spa also serves as a creative outlet for self-expression. Hewitt encourages clients to explore their identities through self-care, whether it’s through art or personal grooming. ‘I believe self-care is important for everyone, no matter what gender they are identifying with,’ she stated.
Championing Inclusion Beyond the Spa
In addition to providing a safe space for self-care, They Spa is part of a broader movement towards inclusion and acceptance within the beauty industry. Hewitt’s work aligns with the values of organizations like Gay Gooners, Arsenal FC’s official LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, which has been marching at Pride in London since 2013. These initiatives reflect a growing commitment to creating environments where everyone feels they belong.
Hewitt’s dedication to inclusivity has not gone unnoticed. They Spa has become a beacon of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community, demonstrating that beauty services can be both affirming and empowering. As the spa continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that self-care is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their gender identity.
