Crisis is looking for qualified dentists, dental nurses and dental hygienists to help run the Dental Service at Crisis At Christmas this year, to build on the success of 2009 when over 260 patients received dental treatment. Shifts run from 9am to 5.30pm from Friday 24 December to Wednesday 29 December with a minimum of two shifts. Senior dental nurse Bianca Payne volunteered for Crisis At Christmas in 2008:

‘Admittedly, I was a little daunted by the idea of coming face to face with these unfortunate people whom we see every day across London, and who seem largely ignored by our society.

‘When I turned up on that first chilly morning, I was immediately affected by the warmth of the place. It was buzzing! There were people everywhere – holding steaming cups of tea and coffee, engrossed in wholesome conversations and having a good laugh. I couldn't tell the difference between the guests and the volunteers. It seemed that this was an old meeting place for good friends.

‘The dentistry was carried out in a couple of fully equipped vans which weren't much smaller than some of the surgeries I've worked in around London. Furthermore, we had heating and a steady supply of chocolate to keep up our energy levels!’

To find out how you can volunteer email ccvolunteering@crisis.org.uk, apply online at www.crisis.org.uk/volunteering or telephone 0844 892 8980.