Community engagement charity, Well Connected, have recently provided oral health advice and education to a group of eight young people at Dartington-based Lifeworks College through the charity's Dental Ambassador programme.

Delivered over a period of six weeks, the project covered different aspects of oral health with emphasis on the key oral health messages. Through a combination of games and activities designed to help consolidate learning, the students built their knowledge of oral health and the importance of looking after their teeth.

Students were familiarised with a mobile dental chair during the programme, similar to that which they would encounter at a dentist surgery, and introduced to the dental light, equipment and protective wear that they, and the dentist, may wear including disposable gloves, aprons and masks.

Using a simulated teaching head, known as a 'Bob in a Box', enabled the students to 'be the dentist' and see teeth from this unique viewpoint. This module also encouraged students to discuss any concerns and worries they may have about visiting the dentist and the Well Connected team were able to support and address these.

Wendy Smith MBE, Strategic Lead for Community Engagement at Well Connected, said: 'It's been great to work with the staff and students from Lifeworks College; they are an inspiring group of young people who worked hard during the six week programme. We used a variety of engagement methods to increase knowledge and understanding of oral health, this included creative activities alongside resources, games and dental models.

'A great outcome of the project is that the group took the decision to make some simple swaps to reduce the amount of sugar in some of the food and drinks available to them at college! We are looking forward to working with Lifeworks College again.'

The core of Well Connected's Dental Ambassadors programme is empowerment and the students are encouraged to share what they have learnt about oral health and teeth care with their friends and family. At the end of the programme each participant 'graduated' and received a certificate and Dental Ambassador's badge.

Well Connected's mission is to be expert providers in community engagement services for health improvement in the South West region, supporting health improvement agendas and positive lifestyle choices for vulnerable and disadvantaged population groups.