At Change Please, we are always seeking innovative ways to create positive impact. That’s why we are thrilled to announce the launch of our new initiative, Smile for Change. This program offers vital dental services to people experiencing homelessness, provided by a team of dedicated volunteer and contracted dentists, aboard the Smile For Change bus located at our Peckham Training Academy. This initiative is not only about providing dental care but also about restoring dignity, improving health, and creating brighter futures.
The Smile for Change bus is a fully equipped, mobile dental clinic, offering free, essential services to those in need. By making dental care accessible in this way, we hope to reach individuals who might not otherwise have access to such services. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative that merges healthcare with mobility, taking a vital service directly to those who need it most. With the support of our incredible volunteer dentists, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our community.
Appointments will be made via referrals from Driving for Change locations.
Please note that unfortunately, the bus is not wheelchair accessible and is unsuitable for individuals unable to climb stairs.
Contact Smile For Change
Mohamed Beegun,
Dental Operations Manager
mohamed.b@changeplease.org
MEET THE TEAM
Yasmin
Yasmin qualified as a Dentist in 2018, following a background as a Dental Hygiene Therapist. Since 2023, she has been part of Change Please’s Driving for Change initiative, providing dental care to vulnerable groups, including those facing homelessness and addiction. With a focus in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Yasmin spent three years specialising in this field and has conducted research on the impact of homelessness on dental health. She also works for the Community Dental Service, delivering tailored care to children and adults with special needs. Passionate about improving oral health equity, Yasmin advocates for accessible care to underserved communities.
GDC number: 244025
Suren
Suren has been practicing dentistry since 1974 and has extensive experience in general practice. He bought his own practice in 1976, growing it into a 7-surgery practice with a balance of 50% NHS and 50% private care. Throughout his career, Suren has navigated numerous NHS reforms and has worked with the CQC since its introduction. After selling his practice in 2022 and retiring, Suren now dedicates his time to volunteer work, continuing to contribute his wealth of knowledge and experience to communities in need.
GDC number: 48206
Olive
Orsolya (Olive) Karpati is a committed dental advisor at Change Please, with extensive experience in dental nursing, outreach programs, and patient advocacy. Olive is passionate about improving access to dental care for underserved communities, having volunteered with Crisis at Christmas in 2017 to provide urgent dental care to people experiencing homelessness. Her experience spans primary care and hospital settings, where she developed strong communication skills to engage effectively with diverse patient groups and healthcare teams. Olive holds multiple qualifications, including an Advanced Dental Nursing certificate, and is committed to ongoing professional development.
GDC number: 181628
Melissa
With over 25 years of healthcare experience, Melissa has dedicated her career to providing compassionate care to underserved communities, including homeless and refugee populations. Her background spans both dental and general healthcare, allowing her to approach patient care holistically. Melissa is deeply committed to making dental care accessible and comfortable for those facing treatment barriers. She focuses on building trust with her patients and helping them regain confidence in their oral health, aiming to improve both dental and overall well-being through high-quality, patient-centred care.
GDC number: 116120
Devang
Devang holds an MSc in Dental Science for Clinical Practice from Queen Mary University of London and brings over 10 years of clinical experience. Known for his conservative approach to restorative dentistry, Devang prioritises high-quality care and works closely with patients to guide them toward optimal oral health. In addition to his practice, he is deeply committed to community service, actively supporting Change Please to provide accessible dental care to homeless individuals and improve their quality of life.
GDC number: 319765
Rufus
Rufus Mathew is a second-year dental student at King’s College London with a diverse range of interests in the field of dentistry. Currently, he is particularly intrigued by orthodontics, paediatrics, and research. As he continues his studies, Rufus is excited to expand his knowledge and skills, eager to explore new areas of dentistry that may spark further passion.
His main motivation for volunteering with Change Please is to make a meaningful impact on the community, especially for those who need it the most. Through volunteering, Rufus is able to not only enhance his professional development but also give back to the community by contributing to the well-being of individuals facing significant challenges. He finds this opportunity to be both fulfilling and aligned with his commitment to helping others.
GDC number: XXXXX
While complaints can be directed to the Dental Complaints Service https://dcs.gdc-uk.org/ we encourage individuals to first email SFCINFO@changeplease.org or speak with the practice manager to attempt to resolve any issues.