CDS CIC

Community Dental Services CIC (CDS CIC) is a not‑for‑profit social enterprise that delivers NHS‑commissioned dental services across much of the East of England and the Midlands. CDS is commissioned by the NHS and by local authorities to provide care for populations who may struggle to access routine dental services, as well as to support prevention and oral health improvement at population level. A core part of CDS’s work is the provision of special care dentistry, supporting children and adults with additional needs, complex medical conditions, learning disabilities, mental health conditions, severe anxiety, or social vulnerability. Services are delivered in community clinics and other local settings, ensuring care is accessible and appropriate for patients who may not be suitable for high‑street dental provision. In addition to clinical care, CDS undertakes oral health improvement and dental epidemiology on behalf of local authorities. This includes population‑level programmes, needs assessments and evidence‑based prevention initiatives designed to reduce oral health inequalities and improve long‑term outcomes. CDS also plays a wider system role through workforce development and education, including delivery of training via its Learning Academy, supporting the development of the dental workforce across community and primary care settings. As a Community Interest Company, CDS reinvests surpluses into service development, innovation, staff development and quality improvement, with a clear focus on patient care, prevention and public value rather than shareholder profit.