A charity dental hub is trying to tackle hygiene poverty in Devon

A charity hub trying to tackle hygiene poverty and a shortage of dentists has opened in Devon.

Transforming Plymouth Together's (TPT) Hygiene Hub opened in the city in October and offers a range of oral hygiene products and advice in return for a £1.50 registration fee.

The hub was created by TPT, Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise and a number of local churches, in response to the Plymouth Report 2023, which highlighted a trend of poor dental health amongst children.

TPT Project Coordinator Arthur Goode said: "Dental hygiene is very important for people's wider health, particularly when we know there is such a shortage of dentists and available dental care in Plymouth."

Initially the Hygiene Hub is offering dental advice and products but intends to offer a range of hygiene products in return for a small membership contribution.

John Williams who is Project Support for TPT said: "Hopefully will be able to reach an awful lot of people would otherwise struggle.

"If you're struggling to put food on the table, you are more likely to be struggling to put hygiene items in your bathroom cabinet."

Four churches collaborated to set up the hygiene hub along with Plymouth Dental Social Enterprise, who have been training the volunteers to give good basic advice.

Volunteer Pauline Arkle said: "We tell all children and adults to brush their teeth twice a day and if it's only one opportunity then it should be in the evening before bedtime.

"Brush in a circular motion, not across, up and down, but circular.

"That stimulates the gums and cleans the teeth more efficiently."

The Hub on George Street in Plymouth is open on Fridays between 10:00 (GMT) and 13:00.