MP meets NHS England bosses to urge action on Cumbria’s dentistry crisis

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron recently met with regional directors of NHS England and Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board to call for action on the county's dentistry crisis.

Tim has also now written to all local NHS dental practices in South Lakeland asking them what specific support they need to be able to take on more NHS patients.

It comes after Bupa announced they will sell its dental branch in Kendal, after struggling to recruit enough staff.

During the meeting, Tim urged them to increase provision and review the NHS contract which he labelled as 'completely unfit for purpose'.

NHS England representatives told Tim that they have offered local dental practices extra funding to take on extra NHS patients.

Tim said: "I'm grateful to local and regional health bosses for taking the time to meet with me about the dental crisis that is unfolding here in Cumbria.

"It is an absolutely appalling situation where people are expected to travel hundreds of miles to see a dentist.

"This cannot be allowed to go on for any longer - those in charge of our health service must get a grip and ensure that patients get access to the NHS dental services that their taxes."