The NHS Parliamentary Awards were created in 2018 to celebrate and recognise the outstanding contribution of staff, volunteers and others working in the healthcare sector.
In the first stage of the awards, MPs nominate healthcare teams and individuals in their local area to highlight their exceptional commitment and achievements working in and with the NHS. In 2024, 318 MPs across England put forward a total of 918 nominations.
The University of Suffolk Dental Community Interest Company (CIC), commissioned by Suffolk and North-East Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) earlier this year, has said it provides high-quality NHS dental and oral health care services in the area, and supports dental workforce training and education.
This unique model of oral healthcare provision was announced on the shortlist for the NHS Parliamentary national awards in the ‘Excellence in Primary Care and Community Care’ category.
Lorraine Mattis, chief executive of the University of Suffolk Dental CIC, said, “We are so honoured to receive the east of England regional award and be shortlisted for the national NHS Parliamentary Award for ‘Excellence in Primary Care and Community Care’. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team at University of Suffolk Dental CIC.
“Our mission has always been to provide outstanding care and make a meaningful difference in our community. This award inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of excellence in primary care.”
The university also launched its BSc Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy course at its state-of-the-art Centre for Dental Development in February 2024, which has seen a significant demand for places. The university has said students on the course will be able to carry out placements at the University of Suffolk Dental CIC.
Jenny Higham, a professor and vice-chancellor at the university, said, “It is an honour to see the University of Suffolk Dental CIC, commissioned by Suffolk and North-East Essex ICB, recognised for its work in bolstering the greatly needed NHS dental provision in our region.
“The work of the University of Suffolk Dental CIC is an important response to the issue of access to oral healthcare, and our commitment to working with local practices and the NHS to deliver the best possible dental care. I am delighted to continue the leadership shown by my predecessor, Helen Langton, in supporting the development of the future dental workforce.”
The regional award winners will advance to the national NHS Parliamentary Awards, which will be held on October 14, 2024.