MP calls for Frome to benefit from NHS dental expansion

Local MP Anna Sabine has called on NHS Somerset to ensure that Frome and East Somerset residents benefit from the next phase of NHS dental expansion.

The call follows NHS Somerset’s announcement that more patients across the country have been able to access NHS dental care over the past year, with increased NHS activity delivered through new practices and targeted investment.

While welcoming the progress being made to improve access to NHS dental services, Anna has raised concerns that Frome and surrounding communities in East Somerset do not currently appear to be included among the areas benefiting from this additional capacity.

Anna said she continues to hear from constituents who are struggling to access NHS dental appointments, with many facing long waits for treatment or unable to afford the cost of private care.

To address these concerns, she has written to NHS Somerset Chief Executive Peter Lewis, urging the organisation to consider Frome and East Somerset as a priority area for future investment and expansion.

She said, “It is encouraging to see further investment in NHS dentistry across Somerset. However, it is important that this progress reaches every part of the county.

“While three new NHS dental practices have opened in Somerset since Autumn 2025, none of these are located within Frome and East Somerset and I continue to hear from constituents who are unable to access the dental care they need.

“I want to constructively work with NHS Somerset to ensure that people in Frome and the surrounding areas can benefit from the same improvements that are being implemented across other parts of the county”.

Pictured: Anna on a recent visit to Northway Dental Practice in Midsomer Norton