The High Street Youth Oral Health Outreach Program improves access to oral healthcare for young people aged 12–24 years by addressing barriers such as cost, transport, and limited awareness of available services.
The program provides free dental care through a mobile van in youth-friendly settings. Services include dental check-ups, X-rays, cleans, fluoride treatments, fissure sealants, and simple restorative care. Referrals are made through youth services, schools, and community organisations, with pathways to fixed clinics for more complex treatment.
Since launching in late 2023, 81 young people have received care across 16 visits. Participants reported improved access to dental services, particularly through the removal of financial and transport barriers. Importantly, 41% of participants completed all treatment through the outreach service without needing referral to another clinic. Feedback highlighted high satisfaction, improved oral health, and positive care experiences.
The program has helped to improve equitable access to oral healthcare for vulnerable young people, reduce health inequity, and support better long-term health outcomes.
