DESIGNING fashionable nails is not the only goal for this new Southampton salon.

Eliana's in London road will be swinging its doors open on Monday March 7, offering a unique service.

Nail technicians will encourage customers to talk about their mental health whilst undergoing a relaxing treatment.

The man behind the business is Southampton born-and-bred Safwan Zulfukar, who is a former counsellor for the local branch of the YMCA.

“We are offering one-to-one services while the clients are getting their nails done," said the 27-year-old, who lives in the city centre.

"Maybe the customer will have underlying mental health issues, maybe they wish to speak with the person doing their nails - if they’ve got any issues in the past, or they’re dealing with things now.

“I believe a lot of businesses are not touching upon anything to do with mental health, and it’s a big thing, but it’s just not looked upon and people struggle.

“So I want to offer a place that is friendly where you can come and speak to someone and go from there."

Mr Zulfukar has a law degree from the University of Winchester, and hopes his background in supporting people with mental health issues will make for a successful business.

“I’ve chosen to do this as a new project, something that is a new topic and hasn’t really been done before," he continued.

“I haven’t seen any beauty businesses, an industry which can often set standards high and hurt mental health, do this kind of thing.”

The unit, 45 London Road, is part of the former Natwest Bank, which has since been divided into smaller units.

In 2018, there had been talk of the building being turned into flats like the units above, but a planning application never surfaced.

Jobs are still being advertised at Eliana's.

Those interested in applying for the job should email Mr Zulfukar on: Safwan.90@hotmail.co.uk.