by Greg Couzens
For half a century, CHANGES Hair Design has been at the heart of Littleborough, where generations of clients have come for hairdressing, friendship and laughter with a warm welcome.
Founded by Tim and Sharon Whittaker, the salon has earned a reputation for professionalism, creativity and genuine care.
Over the past fifty years, it has adapted to changing fashions and techniques while never losing sight of what matters most: looking after clients.
Sharon has been a constant presence, welcoming clients as receptionist and bookkeeper, helping to create the family atmosphere that has always defined the salon. Along the way, many talented stylists started their careers at CHANGES before going on to run successful businesses of their own, with many still proudly describing Tim as the mentor who inspired them.
The next generation has continued that proud tradition. Tim and Sharon’s daughter, Megan Whittaker, first joined the salon as a Saturday assistant before pursuing a career in hairdressing. Under Tim’s guidance, she developed into an accomplished stylist, qualifying in 2019, a moment of pride for the family.
Like every salon, CHANGES faced a challenge during the Covid pandemic. An even more personal battle followed when Tim was diagnosed with stage four cancer. Sadly, he passed away in April 2021, just as the salon was preparing to reopen. It was a heartbreaking loss, not only for his family but also for the many clients whose lives he had touched.
Today, Sharon and Megan continue Tim’s legacy with the same warmth, dedication and commitment that he instilled from the very beginning. The salon remains as busy as ever,
welcoming loyal clients alongside new faces discovering CHANGES for the first time.
Fifty years is an extraordinary achievement. It is a story of resilience, family, loyalty and community, and a reminder that the best businesses are built not just on skill, but on kindness.
Above all, this milestone is a tribute to Tim Whittaker, whose passion, generosity and dedication helped shape not only a successful salon but also the lives and careers of so many people in Littleborough.
