Fund free dental care for head & neck cancer patients
We want the Government to fund free dental care for head and neck cancer patients both during and after treatment to address the significant oral health challenges that survivors may face, and to improve their overall quality of life.
Signatures
11,694
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 10,000/10,000 · reached
Debate threshold (100,000) · 11,694/100,000
- 30 APR 2026Petition closedFinal total: 11,694 signatures
- 05 MAR 2026Government respondedDepartment of Health and Social CareGovernment reply
We understand the importance of oral care for cancer patients. There are no current plans to extend free care to cancer patients, although those struggling with NHS dental costs can apply for help.
Read full response - 12 FEB 202610,000 signatures reachedEligible for a government response
- 30 OCT 2025Petition opened for signatures
Background
Head and neck cancer treatments, such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, can result in long-term oral health issues, including dry mouth, tooth decay and infections. These conditions can severely affect survivors' quality of life, their self-esteem and ability to eat, speak. Providing free dental care could ensure patients have access to essential treatments, improve their health outcomes, and reduce the financial burden, similar to other cancer types already covered by healthcare services.