We are a student-led project based at the University of Manchester Dental Hospital. The project name 'HIPPOH' stands for 'Helping Infants & Parents to Protect their Oral Health'. This project is led by 'Manchester Paediatric Dentistry Student Society' (MPDSS) in collaboration with Manchester Student Union. The main aim of our project is to educate parents about oral health during pregnancy and also about the oral health of their infant.
Why is this project needed?
A recent study has shown that more than 1 in 3 five year olds across Greater Manchester experience tooth decay - well above the England national average of 25%. When it comes to avoiding dental disease - early prevention is key. It is paramount that parents are informed about how to take care of their children's oral health from the get-go.
Our aim is to give expectant parents all the information that they need in order to give their child the best start to their oral health. It is our hope that this will help reduce childhood decay rates in Greater Manchester.
The main aim of this project is to deliver educational sessions that promote good oral health behaviours to primary school students in Key Stage 1. It also gives you, the volunteer, an opportunity to experience interacting with younger children whilst building on communication skills.
*Currently, this volunteering opportunity is limited to dental students (BDS/BSc).
What will my role be?
You will be required to deliver talks and activities based on oral health, visiting the dentist and healthy eating. Your duties will include setting up and leading small group activities. You will rotate through several stations in the course of a session.
How will I travel to the primary school?
Transport will be provided. However, having a car is an added bonus! Petrol money can be reimbursed.
What will happen prior to these sessions?
You will receive appropriate training and information regarding the project and the sessions, which will all be delivered to you by the MPDSS committee.
Will there be interviews?
We may decide to hold interviews if there are a very high number of applicants.
Do I need a DBS check in order to volunteer?
Yes. You must have an enhanced DBS check in order to volunteer with us. If you do not have a DBS check, please initiate a free DBS check with the SU as soon as possible.
When do the sessions begin?
The sessions will start towards the end of October 2023.
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4 hours per session