NOMINATIONS are now open for the people who help to keep Leicester residents smiling.
The Smile Awards celebrate the efforts made by voluntary organisations, dental practices, nurseries, schools and individuals in Leicester to improve the oral health of children, young people and families across the city.
Delivered by the city council’s public health team, the awards are a key part of the city’s Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles! oral health campaign.
There are seven categories:
- Community champion: Adults – awarded to an individual or group who has worked hard to improve the oral health of adults in their community, either through their work or volunteering efforts.
- Community champion: Children – an individual or group who has worked hard to improve the oral health of children.
- Dental practice award – given to a dental team in Leicester that goes over and above in their commitment to improving oral health, not just among their patients but also in the local community.
- Early years award – awarded to a nursery, childminder or pre-school that is passionate about improving the health of the children they look after, and works hard to support children and their parents to maintain good oral health.
- School award – the winner of this award will be a school in Leicester that has prioritised improving oral health in their school and has put in a special effort to do so.
- Healthcare professional award – given to an individual or team demonstrating a strong commitment to prioritising and promoting oral health every day.
- Above and beyond award – focused on individuals who have worked tirelessly to promote oral health in Leicester, showing enthusiasm, passion and dedication to improving oral health in their setting or community.
Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for public health, said: “Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles! continues to make a really positive difference in Leicester. We’re very proud of the way this campaign has helped to mobilise and inspire schools, nurseries and the wider community, encouraging everyone to make oral health an important part of an everyday routine. These awards are also a great chance to recognise volunteers, dentists and health professionals for the important work they do.
“There are established links between poor oral health and other diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and respiratory infections. Although it’s great to get into good habits early in life, it’s never too late to start, which is why these awards include recognition for people who help adults as well as children and families in Leicester.”
Anyone is welcome to nominate people and organisations for the awards. Nominations are open now until noon on Monday 25th May.
The Smile Awards ceremony will then take place on Friday 7 July, with shortlisted organisations and individuals invited to attend and winners announced on the day.
To make a nomination, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/smileawards
ENDS