A CARLISLE dentist has told patients they will no longer be providing NHS care to patients in the city.

The NHS wrote to patients of Lismore Dental Practice on Lismore Street to say that the dental provider has given notice to terminate their NHS contract and that the practice will no longer be providing NHS dental care with effect from June 30.

The news comes as Liberal Democrat leader Tim Pickstone has warned of people in the county resorting to 'DIY' dental care amid a cost-of-living crisis.

Councillor Pickstone said: "The cost-of-living crisis is making things even worse.

"People are missing out on check-ups, having check-ups less often, and at worst resorting to 'DIY' dental care."

A letter sent by the pratice to patients said:"We appreciate that the loss of NHS dental care provision will be of concern and acknowledge the impact this may have on access to NHS dental care which we appreciate is already challenging in some areas due to the dental workforce and recruitment challenges that dental practices are facing.

"Please be assured that it is our intention to replace the lost capacity as quickly as possible.

"We have written to NHS dental providers within the surrounding areas to see if they are able to take on any additional activity, as we believe that this is the quickest way to replace the lost access for patients.

"If this does not prove to be successful, the next steps would be to go out to formal procurement to try to secure a new dental service.

"We will be working with the provider of the service to ensure that patients who have accessed NHS dental at the practice are advised of our plans."