In an initiative aimed at addressing child dental health, Asda has partnered with Colgate to distribute over 70,000 dental kits to more than 1,600 schools across deprived areas in the UK.
- Tooth decay is the leading cause of hospital admissions for children aged five to nine, impacting disadvantaged communities the hardest.
- Each dental kit includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a brushing chart, along with educational materials for families.
- Schools will have access to Colgate’s Bright Smiles, Bright Futures programme, promoting effective oral care habits within the national curriculum.
- The initiative aligns with broader efforts by Asda to support UK primary schools through financial contributions and educational resources.
In a concerted effort to enhance dental hygiene among children, Asda and Colgate have joined forces to provide over 70,000 complimentary dental kits to more than 1,600 schools in the UK’s most deprived areas. This initiative addresses a critical health issue where tooth decay continues to be the principal reason for hospital admissions among children aged five to nine.
Research indicates that children from underprivileged communities are disproportionately affected by dental issues. They are 3.5 times more likely to undergo tooth extractions compared to their peers in more affluent areas. The dental kits include a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a brushing chart designed to cultivate healthy dental habits from an early age.
Moreover, the initiative is not just about providing dental tools but also encompasses educational components aimed at fostering better oral care routines at home. Schools participating in this program will gain access to Colgate’s Bright Smiles, Bright Futures scheme, which is harmonised with the national curriculum to enhance children’s understanding of oral health.
Asda’s Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer, Hayley Tatum MBE, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating that children in deprived communities face significant challenges in accessing basic dental care. By equipping over 1,600 schools and 70,000 students with necessary tools and educational materials, the partnership aims to instil lifelong healthy dental habits.
This dental health initiative complements Asda’s ongoing efforts to assist UK primary schools financially. Through a loyalty programme led by Joe Wicks, the supermarket is donating 0.5% of transactions until November 30 to chosen schools, a campaign which has successfully raised £3 million in just four weeks.
The collaboration between Asda and Colgate marks a significant step towards improving dental health and education for children in the UK’s deprived areas.
