University of Suffolk’s ‘groundbreaking’ dental training centre bags commendation at NHS Parliamentary Awards

The team behind the University of Suffolk’s dental unit are celebrating after bagging a national award.

The Ipswich campus’s dental care centre secured the Excellence in Primary Care and Community Care Award at the NHS Parliamentary Awards, held at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster on Monday.

In total, 918 healthcare teams from across the UK were nominated.

Lorraine Mattis, chief executive of UoS’s Dental Community Interest Company (CIC), said she was honoured to have secured the award.

“This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team, who are committed to making a meaningful difference in our community,” she said.

The university’s dental unit was set up in 2022 to combat the dental crisis facing Suffolk.

It was commissioned by the East Suffolk and North Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) and offers treatment, training and education.

In February, the university launched its dental hygiene and dental therapy degree courses at the centre.

Professor Jenny Higham, vice-chancellor at the University of Suffolk, said: “It is gratifying to see the University of Suffolk Dental CIC acknowledged for its vital role in enhancing NHS dental provision in our region.

“Our commitment to improving access to oral healthcare is unwavering, and I am proud to support the development of future dental professionals.”

Meanwhile, Ed Garratt, chief executive of the East Suffolk and North Essex ICB, congratulated the team on their win.

He said it was the first time a dental project was recognised in the awards.

Mr Garratt added: “This groundbreaking model not only benefits our communities but also serves as a potential blueprint for wider implementation.

“It is a commissioning model that ensures there is also a dental workforce in training behind those already caring for patients which will, in time, create a sustainable NHS dental service in the area.”