Queen Mary University London (QMUL) is set to receive a significant £4.1 million boost from Barking and Dagenham Council's Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL) to enhance community health through an innovative dental outreach programme.

The funding, approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, will support the North East London Dental Outreach Collaborative, aiming to provide crucial dental care to approximately 5,200 residents annually. Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, emphasized the importance of this allocation, stating that SCIL is designed for precisely this type of regeneration and noted that this is the biggest SCIL project to date.

The initiative, which will be based at Maritime House in Barking Town Centre, aims to provide dental care to residents, particularly young people, who may otherwise be unable to access it. Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, highlighted the severity of the issue, noting that 65% of 3 to 5-year-olds and 80% of 18 to 34-year-olds in the borough do not have access to a dentist. She further explained the wider health implications, stating that oral health is linked to conditions such as diabetes, making early dental care crucial.

The partnership with QMUL is expected to bring numerous benefits to the borough, including training the next generation of dental professionals. Councillor Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Climate Change, lauded the proposal for not only improving access to NHS dental care but also investing in the training of future professionals, with 130 students expected to participate in the initiative. The initiative also aligns with the council's broader ambition to establish Barking and Dagenham as a hub for health research and innovation.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement, expressed her pride in the project, highlighting its potential to improve dental hygiene and qualifications among young people. She also acknowledged the national shortage of dentists and the importance of taking action to address this issue. The Leader of the Council noted the immeasurable benefits to residents and the potential for further research and partnership with NHS partners.

The full minutes of the meeting can be found on the council's website.