Community trust delivers thousands of oral health packs to families in need in Kent
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust has delivered thousands of oral health packs to local families in need.
The trust usually distributes around 800 packs per month, but during the Coronavirus crisis, the demand has rocketed. The packs contain a toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and oral hygiene leaflets.
Before the lockdown commenced, there was a shortage of supplies, but the trust has been working in partnership with local food banks, businesses and the Salvation Army to access and distribute more than 5,000 bundles since March. With many losing income as a result of the pandemic, more families came forward and the team set about identifying priority recipients. The toothbrushes were provided by the trust, and the toothpaste was supplied by GSK (GlaxoSmithKline).
Senior project coordinator at KCHFT’s dental outreach team, Surjeet Jhheent, approached a contact from GSK after working with the company on a clinical trial. Thankfully, GSK was happy to help, and the firm has since provided 8,000 tubes of toothpaste. Many families across the UK are struggling at the moment, and it’s increasingly difficult to afford even the most basic household items. The initiative by Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust is making a positive difference to families that have been impacted by the crisis, enabling them to access oral hygiene products to protect their teeth and gums. Members of the community outreach team have been putting packs together and delivering them safely using PPE, sanitiser and social distancing.
Join this Discussion