“I have a 6-year-old son. In December 2020 I was informed my dental practice would no longer offer NHS Dentistry to children. No alternatives were given.” 

In December 2020 Pete’s dentist informed the family that they would no longer offer NHS dentistry to children. The practice had no information on alternatives.  

Left without a dentist for his son Pete spent 3-months calling all the local dentists and was continually told non were taking on NHS patients. He wrote to local MPs, Clinical Commissioning Groups, and us here at Healthwatch Kirklees.  

One of our senior engagement officers picked up the issue and investigated it. Finally, in April 2020 we found Pete’s son a dentist in Batley. 

 “ I was very grateful for Healthwatch’s support but I know that I am one of many who are struggling and something must be done. 

The lack of access to preventative dentistry, particularly for children, is just storing up problems for the future.”