About Us
SmileMenders is an organisation set up by two Swindon dental practitioners that aims to help the children of the Ukraine, through the education and provision of medicines, materials and instruments that will enable trauma free solutions.
Founders
Smile Menders was founded by Brendon Ball, a New Zealand GP dentist and Richard Swift, an Orthodontist. Both currently practice in Swindon. Supporting Brendon and Richard are their wives Natasha and Linda.
Why Ukrane?
Between 1930 and 1955 the Ukraine suffered the loss of about 25million citizens; the victims of communist and fascist “philosophy”. Compassion and tenderness are scarce enough. Since Chernobyl, scant resources have been directed to treating cancer. This has meant that dental disease has trebled. Children have most treatment performed without any pain relief (including extractions). We hope not to restrict operations solely to Ukraine. As we expand we hope we will be able to help children in other countries.
Are we a registered charity?
YES. Encouraged by our success and hoping to extend our activities we are now happy to have become a registered charity. Everyone involved with the Charity is a volunteer. Every penny donated goes towards projects.