GWR grant aims to deliver a smile to vulnerable adults experiencing dental pain

Well Connected, an award-winning Plymouth-based wellbeing charity, will use the funding to reach out to adults experiencing high levels of dental pain and discomfort.  

As part of its community engagement approach, the team will work closely with Plymouth Soup run, which is operated by churches and faith group across the city, to provide oral health resources, safety items, and personal hygiene items as part of a wellbeing pack.

GWR’s franchise agreement with the Department for Transport includes a commitment to supporting community and not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

Strategic Lead for Community Engagement at Well Connected, Wendy Smith MBE, said the importance of oral health was often overlooked.

“A healthy and happy smile impacts on every aspect of wellbeing, such as confidence, self-esteem, academic attainment, speech development, and the ability to enjoy a range of foods.

“Sadly, for many people dental decay and poor oral health is part of their everyday life. For those who experience inequality and disadvantage, oral health is further compromised by lifestyle factors and accessibility to dental care and support.”

GWR’s funding will help the charity provide dental health resources, including a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, alongside the wellbeing packs which are distributed. Dental packs will also be offered on a quarterly basis to vulnerable adults accessing the Plymouth Soup Run.

Working with colleagues who support this population group, Well Connected will also identify and source the most relevant items needed to create a wellbeing pack including face masks, hand sanitiser socks, hat, gloves etc.

GWR Community Manager Emma Morris said:

“We have a specific pot of money designed to support community and not-for-profit organisations. Well Connected’s project to improve dental health among vulnerable adults really stood out and we are pleased to allocate this funding as part of our agreement with the DfT.”

To find out more about Well Connected please visit wellconnecteduk.org

Notes to editors

First Greater Western Limited, trading as “Great Western Railway” (GWR), operates trains across the Great Western franchise area, which includes South Wales, the West Country, the Cotswolds, across southern England and into London. GWR provides high speed, commuter, regional and branch line train services, and before the covid-19 pandemic helped over 100 million passengers reach their destinations every year. GWR was recently awarded an extension to its direct award franchise (called DA3), which shall run up to 31 March 2023 with an option to extend for a further year. 
Find out more here: https://www.gwr.com/about-us