Melissa Sloan has covered 90% of her body in tattoos and says she is often left housebound because people can’t stop staring at her when she leaves the house
The UK’s most tattooed mum has decided to give the pub a miss this Mother’s Day to avoid causing a stir among the diners. With at least 800 tattoos, Melissa Sloan is adorned from head to toe with intricate designs that she says tend to draw “staring” from onlookers whenever she is in public.
It’s a special day for mums across the UK. But the 47 year old, from Kidderminster, has opted to keep a low profile on Mother’s Day when families flock to pubs and restaurants for a celebratory meal.
She said: “I wanted to go for a pub meal with my kids but I can’t as I might scare the other customers away,” Melissa shared with What’s The Jam. She explained how people often give her space on the street, saying: “People stare at me whenever I leave the house, and they always move out of the way if they pass me in the streets.”
“It’s crazy”, she added. Melissa has grown accustomed to the attention, but admits that dining out amplifies the issue, saying: “I’m used to it by now, but going out for meals makes it even worse.”
She even fears that her appearance might drive patrons out of eateries. “I’m worried that one day people will actually leave the restaurant because of the way I look,” she said.
Her children have questioned the public’s fascination with their mother in the past. “My children used to ask why people were always staring at me.” Now, the family has become desensitised to the gawking, however: “They aren’t so bothered now, as we’re all used to it, but it’s not nice to be on the receiving end.”
Despite the challenges, Melissa faces resistance from the public. She said: “Sadly, people just can’t seem to accept me, so I’ll be staying at home this Mother’s Day.”
She says: “It’s not worth all the attention.” Melissa’s body and face are extensively tattooed, prompting her to use heavy foundation when venturing outside.
Previously, she expressed her frustration with the constant attention, stating strangers “won’t leave me alone” and lamenting that she “shouldn’t have to hide”. She stressed: “My tattoos should be accepted and understood. It gets tiring having to avoid public places due to the way I look and people lacking understanding.
“While it can be a major inconvenience, I don’t regret my tattoos – I love the way I look. If other people can’t handle it, that’s their problem.” Regarding her children, she shared that they are completely at ease with her distinctive appearance. The mum continued: “My kids love me for me.”
Melissa had previously expressed her concerns about holidaying abroad, feeling “forced” to stay in the UK due to fears of being judged or causing discomfort to others. She explained: “I feel as though a holiday abroad is out of the question for me. I’ll draw a lot of attention just walking through the airport and I’m worried about being flagged by staff.
“Judgemental tourists will stare at me constantly and I just don’t want to deal with it. Even when getting on the plane – I know people will be too scared to be in the seat next to me. It’s awful as I’d love to take my kids abroad this summer but I just don’t feel comfortable travelling.”
