Access to dental services and oral health across Lancashire and South Cumbria is set to improve with the launch of an NHS programme.

NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) aims to lend a hand to those with the most need of NHS dentistry.

The programme's focus will include where to prioritise investment, enhancing patient pathways, improvements in communications to both the public and staff, aiding retention and recruitment of the dental workforce, and contract management.

Dentist Clare Granger, a senior clinical fellow for the ICB, said: "We know that access to NHS dental services is a big issue at the moment and we receive a lot of comments from local people who are struggling to access an NHS dentist.

"The NHS only receives funding for up to 60 per cent of the population to receive NHS dentistry, however since the COVID-19 pandemic the funding received is currently only sufficient for around 50 per cent.

"It is therefore not possible for everyone in the UK to receive NHS dental treatment."

The ICB has increased access to dental services by guaranteeing funding for the Lancashire and South Cumbria dental helpline.

It is accessible to all and provides advice, support, and an urgent appointment where required.

Ms Granger added: "We hope that by working together with dental teams across Lancashire and South Cumbria we can support people who are most in need to access NHS dentistry and also improve people’s knowledge, both of services and of how best to look after their own oral health at home."

The ICB is also set to launch a broad public campaign promoting oral health and helping people in brushing their teeth properly, regularly and in avoiding sugary foods.

For more information on oral health, visit the NHS website.