Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to ensure that homeless people have access to (a) GP and (b) dental services.

We know that many people experiencing rough sleeping have health conditions and can struggle to access the support they need. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities works with the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, the National Health Service and public health bodies to improve health outcomes for people rough sleeping. This includes committing over £30 million in health interventions as part of the flagship Rough Sleeping Initiative; for example, funding for nurses and general practitioners (GPs) to work with people rough sleeping or in temporary accommodation.

Integrated care boards (ICBs), as commissioners for dental and general practice services across England, are responsible for having local processes in place to involve patient groups. Proof of address and identification are not required for someone to register with a GP practice and access care. ICBs undertake oral health needs assessments to identify areas of need and determine the priorities for investment.