People experiencing homelessness receive free toothbrushes and advice

[Louise Foster from Dental Solutions and Matthew Davenport from The Salvation Army]

Free oral health packs which include toothbrushes, toothpaste and advice have been handed out to service users at The Salvation Army’s centre for people experiencing homelessness in Warrington, James Lee House Lifehouse, to celebrate National Smile Month. 

For the third time in this year, local dental practice, Dental Solutions in Lymm, have put together the packs which contain tips and info on looking after your teeth, diet as well as advice on where to go if you’re experiencing problems. Food, toiletries and other sanitary items have also been donated.

Matthew Davenport, Service Manager at James Lee House, said: “We are very grateful to dental nurse Louise and everyone at Dental Solutions for the kind donation as I know the packs will make a difference to our service users. 

“The oral health packs are a great example of the difference support from the community can make to our service users. Importantly it makes them feel supported and cared for by local people. 

“For someone who is experiencing homelessness, a new toothbrush and some toothpaste can be a real boost as it can give them the confidence to interact with people, and, importantly, smile.  

For some of our service users it can be embarrassing to admit that they may have a problem with their teeth so being able to give them the oral health pack containing advice is wonderful as it provides information they need.” 

Louise Foster, from Dental Solutions, said: “We were really keen to support National Smile Month, the UK’s longest-running campaign to promote good oral health, and wanted to give oral health packs to an organisation where they could really make a difference. We appreciate that being able to afford things like toiletries and toothpaste can be difficult for people experiencing homelessness, so we’re delighted to be able to help.”

The Salvation Army is a provider of Homelessness services throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The church and charity believes providing a bed alone won't go far enough to solve the issues of homelessness. It is an expert in helping people who are experiencing homelessness achieve their goals and employs an experienced and skilled workforce. Staff walk alongside service users giving them support to reach their goal, whether that be employment, getting back in touch with family or beating an addiction. The Salvation Army will never give up on anyone and will give hope.