Cross-party backing for Rosie Moore’s motion to tackle Cornwall’s NHS dentistry crisis
A new motion aimed at improving access to NHS dentistry in Cornwall has been passed with unanimous cross-party support at Cornwall Council, marking what campaigners describe as a “really important step” in addressing long-standing shortages in care.
The motion, led by Councillor Rosie Moore, focuses on strengthening preventative care, expanding outreach services, growing the local dental workforce, and improving access for vulnerable children.
It comes amid ongoing concern that many residents across Cornwall are unable to access even basic NHS dental treatment, reflecting a wider national shortage of appointments and growing waiting lists.
Speaking after the motion was approved, Councillor Moore said she was “delighted” to secure backing from across the political spectrum.
“No, not really, because like you’ve just said, it has been in an awful state across Cornwall and well, nationally,” she said. “So I actually reached out to members in other parties before submitting the motion, and I was delighted with the unanimous cross-party support I received.”
She added that engagement from councillors went beyond expectations, with widespread involvement in shaping the final motion.
“I actually had 17 members sign up to the motion itself,” she said. “I even had members writing in who weren't able to be there on the day to have their statements read out in full council, which is really nice. It’s really, really great to have that unanimous, really strong cross-party support for it.”
The motion is also closely linked with wider local efforts, including work by the North Cornwall Dental Action Group, which brings together dentists, health bodies and community organisations to develop practical solutions to the growing crisis.
Councillors say the aim is to move beyond discussion and toward real-world improvements in access, particularly for families and those most in need.
The issue of urgent dental care remains a key concern for residents, with many struggling to know where to turn when treatment is needed quickly.
Councillor Moore highlighted that NHS urgent dental care is available and urged residents to seek help if required.
“You can actually go to the NHS for urgent dental treatment,” she said. “And if you go on to the campaign Facebook page, the numbers are on there, so just give them a call and you can get on to an emergency dentist, which is really good.”
She added that greater awareness of existing services is needed, alongside longer-term improvements in capacity and access.
The motion’s unanimous approval has been welcomed as a sign of political unity on an issue affecting thousands of residents across Cornwall, with councillors now expected to work alongside partners to turn the plan into action.