New Community Schools Project Congratulates Scalpay School On Dental Health Initiatives

17 September 2002

A recent visit to Scalpay School from the local NHS dentist found that for the first time there was a marked improvement in the dental health of children.

Local dentist Mr. Colin Robertson said:

“Previously the vast majority of children required treatment but on this occasion almost all required very little assistance.”

Scalpay school has been involved in several initiatives that have helped to bring about this change in the number of children requiring significant dental work, including: Promoting the consumption of water in the classroom at regular intervals, providing a healthy snack at break time and focussing on dental health and the need for effective brushing at regular intervals.

Donald A Macleod, Integration Manager of New Community Schools Project, said:

"I am delighted that the school has been able to implement so many small changes that have made such an impact on the Dental health of its pupils.

The reduction in dental caries is one thing but all the other benefits of a healthy diet can have major implications for the well-being of children in the future.

The NCS project aims to improve awareness of the issues and encourage schools and their communities to adopt strategies that will improve our people’s health”.

ENDS

---

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 01851 706412 (Home)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk