Enter and view: Charles Clifford Dental Services

Healthwatch Sheffield carried out an Enter and View visit to Charles Clifford Dental Hospital, a teaching hospital providing specialist dental services and supervised treatment by dental students. Patients spoke positively about the quality of care they received, describing staff as supportive, caring and professional. Healthwatch found a service that was well regarded by patients, with staff communicating effectively and providing a wide range of specialist services. 

The main issues identified related to access and the physical environment. The hospital operates from an older building that presents challenges for accessibility, wayfinding and service organisation. There was limited disabled parking, the main entrance ramp was considered steep for some wheelchair users, and signage to wheelchair-accessible entrances and facilities could be improved. The reception area was also described as cramped and potentially confusing for first-time visitors. 

Healthwatch noted several examples of good practice, including interpreter services, British Sign Language support, accessible treatment areas, dedicated paediatric facilities and a growing focus on accessibility improvements. The hospital was already working with Disabled Go to review access arrangements and identify opportunities for further improvement. Staff highlighted that many limitations related to the age and design of the building rather than the service itself. 

Overall, Healthwatch concluded that Charles Clifford Dental Hospital provided high-quality care in a supportive environment. Recommendations focused on improving signage, increasing disabled parking, maintaining volunteer "meet and greet" support, monitoring telephone access and reviewing call-handling processes. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals accepted the recommendations and outlined actions to improve accessibility, expand volunteer support and strengthen monitoring of patient communications.