Working Well: Roots to Dental delivers dental care to Greater Manchester residents with poor oral health, who are experiencing long-term unemployment.
Across its decade of delivery, Working Well has recognised unmet need in relation to oral health and employment. Many participants are living in dental pain and feel embarrassed about their teeth, impacting on their ability to move into work. A significant number also had no ongoing access to dental care. These issues directly influenced confidence, wellbeing, and readiness for employment. These findings provided the foundation for the Roots to Dental pilot, which began with an initial group of 100 residents.
Surveys and case studies show that access to dental care has helped people feel more confident in speaking, smiling, and interacting with others. Many have reported improvements in mental health, day‑to‑day wellbeing, and quality of life. For some, addressing dental issues has also played a meaningful role in helping them move closer to work or into employment.
Roots to Dental continues to grow, ensuring that more people receiving support through Working Well can access essential dental treatment that supports both their health and their future opportunities.
This link/form should only be used by individuals who have been referred through Working Well or another employment support offer and have been directed here specifically for the Roots to Dental programme.
For general enquiries about accessing treatment, or for information about volunteering for treatment, please visit the following link.