Plymouth research on homeless dental care featured as NICE case study
Our research, conducted in partnership with University of Plymouth, to improve dental access for people experiencing homelessness, recently featured as a Case Study on the NICE guideline tools and resources webpage and Into practice resources.
The case study highlights “tangible, real-world impact aligned with NICE Guideline NG214, which focuses on delivering coordinated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness. Its objectives include improving access to healthcare and social care, supporting engagement between services, and addressing the barriers that prevent people experiencing homeless from receiving coordinated, person-centred care.” Read the full article published in the British Dental Journal on the case study here.
A patient who received dental care at the Community Clinic stated: “And when I walked out of here, the smile on my face. … Messaging my daughter, “Oh, I can smile now without wearing a mask. I’m not covered up”..I can smile now and I couldn’t before.” … I had it taken away from me and to have it given back is like… Yeah, amazing” illustrating the profound improvement in psychosocial wellbeing that accompanies restored oral health.
Jane Jacobi, Implementation Consultant (NICE) stated: “This case study shows how NICE guidance can be put into practice to make a real difference. By aligning with NG214 and combining evidence, lived experience and genuine partnership working, they have expanded access to dental care for those facing the greatest barriers – demonstrating how thoughtful implementation can help local systems tackle inequalities and deliver more inclusive, joined-up care.”
Prof. Rob Witton, Professor of Community Dentistry (UoP) commented: “The ethos of Peninsula Dental School and PDSE is community focused and therefore developing services for people who otherwise find it difficult to access NHS dental care is integral to our mission and values. Addressing oral health inequalities and inequities requires a different more flexible approach to service design, and one which recognises more resource per capita is required to address the needs of people who experience the worst oral health.”
Dr Lyndsey Withers, community research partner who has been actively involved in research and supported patients in accessing the clinic said: “Dental care for people affected by homelessness can be transformative. The boost to self-esteem and confidence helps them believe that a healthier future is possible and deserved. The Community Dental Clinic initiative achieves those impacts by facilitating access, promoting trauma-informed practice and integrating oral health into a wider healthcare model. Recognition through NG214 is a welcome opportunity to share years of listening, learning and reflection to develop an effective, patient-oriented service.”
