Schools in Barnsley to offer tooth brushing classes
It follows concerns about the number of children with tooth decay in the borough
Schools in Barnsley are going to offer tooth brushing clubs, amid concerns about the number of children with tooth decay.
New figures suggest nearly a third of children in the borough have the problem.
The council is now going to fund tooth brushing clubs in schools, family hubs and other childcare settings.
It will include training and equipment for staff to get the clubs up and running.
A dentistry report by Healthwatch Barnsley last year found that more than 60 per cent of respondents had been unable to see an NHS dentist in the last two years, with 42 being unable to get any access to an NHS dentist.
Parents will be asked to give consent for their child to take part in the clubs.
Councillor Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: "A healthy mouth and smile mean we can eat, speak and socialise without pain and discomfort.
"However, almost 30 per cent of five-year-olds in Barnsley have tooth decay.
"Poor oral health can lead to pain and infection, resulting in sleepless nights, difficulty eating and time off nursery or school.
"Tooth decay is preventable, and the supervised toothbrushing clubs will be effective in reducing tooth decay, by complementing toothbrushing at home.”