Leeds dentist provides crucial support for the homeless community
A dentist from Leeds is helping to spread smiles by providing crucial support for the homeless community.
Mr Munaf Qayyum, owner of High Ash Dental Surgery, is giving up his time to provide critical treatment for local homeless people. Mr Qayyum has been using his Wednesday afternoons to help treat and manage dental issues among homeless people in Leeds. He has joined forces with Homeless Street Angels and St George’s Crypt, two Leeds-based charities, to improve standards of oral health.
Many homeless people suffer from dental issues because they don’t have access to routine dental services and they may also struggle to buy oral hygiene products and follow a healthy diet. It can be difficult to access services without a permanent address or the means to travel to an NHS dental clinic or pay for treatment. The partnership between Mr Qayyum and the local charities is making a real difference in Leeds.
As part of an NHS programme, Mr Qaayum now spends one afternoon per week running dedicated sessions for homeless people who need dental treatment. The network of charities and dental providers has established two bases, known as homeless-friendly practices, where people who don’t have a roof over their heads can go to see a dentist. The charities identify those in need, book appointments for them and ensure that they are able to get to the clinic. Sessions start with a basic check-up. If patients need further treatment, such as fillings or extractions, these services are also available to them.
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