Children from Belarus, who are currently on a month-long visit in the island, have benefited from the generosity of the Isle of Man people.
A group of children visit annually thanks to the Friends of Chernobyl’s Children charity, which aims to enhance the health of children affected by the lasting problems caused by the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in 1986.
During their visit to the Isle of Man the children have been given free dental treatment at the Tracey Bell practice. They also received advice on dental care and hygiene and goody bags with toothpaste and toothbrushes.
Since the Manx charity was founded in 1999 around 20 children have made the visit each year – staying for a month. Each child usually makes the trip several times and the charity targets children aged seven to 12 who are from disadvantaged backgrounds and are in social situations where it is difficult for them to find the care they need at home. Everyone who works for the charity gives their time for free so all funds raised go to the children.
During the visits, as well as the free dental treatment, the children are also given general health checks as well as eye tests.
Megan Woods, head receptionist at the dental practice, said: ‘Any treatment they may need is given free of charge. We see about eight children on each visit and we have interpreters so they know what is happening.’