Domestic abuse help and advice
For some people experiencing domestic abuse, Christmas and New Year can be one of the most dangerous periods of the year.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse or know someone who is, or is at risk, there is help and support available from Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS) on 01803 699869 for support in the Torbay area, or Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance (DDAA) on 0808 281 6161 for support outside of Torbay. Please keep these details safe or share with someone who may need help.
Roll out of school dental care across Devon
NHS Devon is funding vital oral health lessons for children in primary schools for the next three years to support them in learning good habits and help protect their teeth for the future.
Open Wide and Step Inside (OWSI) is an oral health programme delivered by the Dental Outreach Team at Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE). The sessions are funded for all year two children (6 to 7 year olds) in primary schools which sign up to the programme and the lesson includes a 15-minute animated film, a two-minute brushing song and a quiz for the children.
Jonathan Bouwer-Davies, a local dentist and Clinical Dental Adviser for NHS Devon, said: “Understanding how to brush your teeth properly is an important life skill for children so programmes like this, which promote good oral health, are essential.
“Supervised toothbrushing is an evidence-based and cost-effective intervention proven to improve children’s oral health and this investment will help address health inequalities by supporting children in the most deprived areas to develop positive brushing habits, preventing tooth decay and reducing the need for hospital treatment.”
Each child receives a home pack containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, two-minute timer and information about oral health messages.
Do you have time to volunteer in Paignton?
The Thrive Project in Paignton is looking for volunteers to help at its community hub in Winner Street.
It provides help to people in crisis, including food parcel referrals, housing and benefit advice, mental health support and providing donated items. If you’re a team player, have empathy and good communication skills, please email thriveprojectuk@gmail.com for details.
Torbay Council partners with travel and personal safety app to help keep community safe
The council has partnered with imabi to launch the Torbay area on Travel Guardian, a free personal safety app which gives people an easier way to report anti-social behaviour concerns, access support and stay safe when they’re out and about.
People can access Torbay-specific information including the locations of the nearest taxi ranks, bus stops, safe spaces and medical equipment, ideal for people on a night out or travelling after dark.
The app offers clear reporting routes for users to report safety concerns or ASB anonymously, and real-time alerts, links to local and national support organisations and geo-location tools that allow users to share their journey with trusted contacts.
