Dentistry in Barnsley

Healthwatch Barnsley undertook research on access to NHS dental services in Barnsley during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report draws on feedback received from local residents and intelligence gathered by Healthwatch Barnsley, including a survey of 28 dental practices in October 2021 to assess the availability of NHS dental appointments. 

The report found that access to routine NHS dentistry had become a significant concern for local residents. Over 70% of enquiries received by Healthwatch Barnsley about dental services related to difficulties accessing routine appointments, either because people were unable to register with an NHS dentist or because practices were only providing emergency care. Residents described prolonged pain, delayed treatment, difficulties navigating services, and negative impacts on their mental wellbeing. 

Healthwatch Barnsley's survey of local dental practices found that only two of the 28 surgeries contacted could offer a routine NHS appointment to new patients, with waiting times of six to eight weeks. Sixteen practices were not accepting new NHS patients and were not operating waiting lists, while some reported waits of between six months and two years. Access for children was slightly better, with six practices able to offer routine appointments within six to eight weeks. 

The report concluded that limited access to NHS dentistry was contributing to worsening oral health inequalities and adversely affecting residents' physical and mental health. Concerns were raised about the long-term sustainability of NHS dental services, the impact of pandemic-related restrictions on capacity, and the risk that vulnerable groups could face increasing barriers to accessing routine dental care.