Schools and nurseries across Knowsley are participating in a new initiative aimed at tackling tooth decay among young children.
Staff at private and school nurseries have completed the Healthy Knowsley Service Early Years Supervised Toothbrushing training. The programme equips staff with skills and resources to teach children proper brushing techniques and embed lifelong oral health habits.
Families also receive oral health guidance, practical tips, and take-home packs including a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Commissioned by Knowsley Public Health and supported by the Cheshire and Merseyside All Together Smiling programme, the training has reached 26 Early Years settings and over 200 staff. Currently, 1,612 children are taking part.
Tooth decay remains one of the most common but preventable health issues among children in the UK. In Knowsley, the proportion of five-year-olds with dental decay rose from 31.2% in 2021/22 to 35.8% in 2023/24. Experts say decay can largely be prevented through regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar intake, and routine dental visits.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Health, said: “It’s encouraging to see so many early years’ settings involved. By reaching children at a critical stage, the programme aims to instil good oral health habits that reduce tooth decay, ease pressure on dental services, and support school readiness.”
Participating schools and nurseries include Eastcroft Park Community Primary, Halsnead Community Primary Academy, Hope Primary, Knowsley Village Primary, Malvern Primary, Northwood Primary, Park Brow Community Primary, Roby Park Primary, and more.
The programme is part of broader efforts to improve children’s oral health across Cheshire and Merseyside.