My family and I had been on a waiting list for an NHS dentist for over a year and a half. After finally securing one, our dentist transitioned to private practice just a couple of years later. We were left with two options - either become private clients or go back on the seemingly endless NHS waiting list. Unfortunately, we couldn't afford the former, so we find ourselves back where we started - without access to dental care and once again on the waiting list.

This is not just our story; it's the reality for many families across the UK. According to Healthwatch England, more than 1 million people in England alone have struggled to get an NHS dentist since March 2020 (source: Healthwatch England). The lack of accessible dental care is leading to unnecessary suffering, preventable health issues and will likely lead to longer term dental issues. 

We are calling upon our government to step in during these times when finding an NHS dentist feels almost impossible. We propose that national insurance be used to provide vouchers towards private dental treatment in such instances. This would ensure that no one is left without access to essential dental care due their inability to find an available NHS dentist or afford private treatment.

Please sign this petition if you believe everyone deserves timely access to dental healthcare regardless of their financial situation or availability of local services.