Local access to NHS dental care sinks to new lows

Over 60% Sussex adults have not seen an NHS dentist over the past year

Adults and families will know all too well that it’s getting harder and harder to find an NHS dentist who’s willing to accept new patients. In the latest figures from the House of Commons Library it’s clear that parts of the country are turning into an NHS desert.

John Milne, Lib Dem Parliamentary candidate for Horsham District, is calling for a boost to NHS dentistry so that no one is forced to pay hundreds of pounds for private care.

The Lib Dems are also calling for an emergency rescue plan for NHS dentistry, including spending any funding that has gone unspent in recent years to boost the number of appointments as well as the removal of VAT on children’s toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Horsham District, John Milne said: 

“Time and again I’m hearing that people just can’t find an NHS dentist any more. For some residents, the price of private treatment is too high in the middle of a cost of living crisis, so they go without.

“This Conservative government has shown a total disregard for every aspect of our health service and the people of Horsham District are bearing the brunt of it. Wherever you look, the NHS is crumbling. 

“This has to act as a wake-up call for the government. We need action. That means reforming NHS dentistry to boost the number of appointments along with removing VAT on children’s toothbrushes and toothpaste.”