VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Dentistry: Apprentices

Asked by Edward MorelloLiberal DemocratDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 3 June 2025UIN 50026

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of introducing dental apprenticeships on shortages of dental professionals in each region.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock

Ministers regularly meet with Cabinet colleagues to discuss a range of issues.

Dental apprenticeships are available for roles such as dental nurses and technicians but are not available to become a qualified dentist. These apprenticeships provide skills and experience, combining work-based training with a degree.

We are determined to rebuild National Health Service dentistry, but it will take time and there are no quick fixes. Strengthening the workforce is key to our ambitions. A core part of the 10-Year Health Plan will be our workforce and how we train and provide the staff, technology, and infrastructure the NHS needs to care for patients across our communities.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim