Ashbourne Lodge care home celebrates 2nd year of ‘Your Smile Matters’ accreditation

Ashbourne Lodge, an Outstanding-rated care home in Derbyshire, is proud to announce it has achieved the Your Smile Matters (YSM) Accreditation for the second year running. This award recognises the home’s continued commitment to promoting excellent oral health among residents.

Developed by the NHS Oral Health Promotion Team, the YSM Accreditation celebrates care homes that embed high-quality, consistent oral hygiene practices into daily care. At Ashbourne Lodge, this critical initiative is championed by Oral Health Leads Rehana Thomas, Kamlajeet Kaur, and Rita Bakere, who work closely with residents to support good oral hygiene habits.

To maintain the accreditation, staff regularly deliver educational sessions covering essential oral health practices, including the importance of not rinsing after brushing to retain fluoride protection and how to care for dentures. Residents are given new toothbrushes every 12 weeks, and clear, practical oral care information is displayed in every room.

One of the home’s most impactful developments has been introducing a domiciliary dentist, who now provides on-site dental care for all residents.

As part of their oral health awareness efforts, residents recently took part in a poster competition organised by the NHS Oral Health Promotion Team. Their creative entries focused on encouraging better brushing habits and understanding the importance of not rinsing after brushing.

“We’re honoured to receive the Your Smile Matters Accreditation for a second year,” said Registered Home Manager Jim Watt. “Our team is passionate about making oral care an integral part of residents’ overall health, comfort, and dignity. This award reflects that commitment.”

This achievement reinforces Ashbourne Lodge’s dedication to person-centred care, where even small daily routines, like brushing teeth correctly, are treated with importance and compassion.

Ashbourne Lodge is part of the Milford Care group, which operates six homes across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The group includes: Ashbourne Lodge (Outstanding) – Ashbourne, Spencer Grove (Outstanding) – Belper, Milford House (Good) – Duffield, The Meadows (Good) – Alfreton, Hazelgrove (Good) – Hucknall, Nottinghamshire and Buddleia House (Outstanding & Good) – Nottinghamshire

All Milford Care homes are known for their warm, homely environments, high levels of social engagement, and wide-ranging care services. These include residential care, nursing care, palliative care, dementia care, respite care, and day care.

For more information about Ashbourne Lodge and its services, contact the home directly at 01335 301 400, visit their website on www.milfordcare.co.uk/ashbourne-lodge or email ashbourne@milfordcare.co.uk.