BADN launches recruitment and retention survey for dental nurses

The BADN Dental Nurse Recruitment & Retention Survey, conducted on behalf of Dr Debbie Reed RDN, former BADN Chair, Fellow of the College of General Dentistry (CGDent), and Director of Studies in Advanced and Specialist Healthcare and Course Director of the MSc in Advanced and Specialist Health in Global and Lifelong Learning  at the University of Kent, is now live.

“I am delighted to be working with BADN – the professional body for dental nurses in the UK – on this survey,” said Dr Reed. “It is essential to gain insight into the dental nurse community at this time of uncertainty, and to gather that insight taking an ethically approved, methodologically sound research approach.”

“The aim of the study is to provide understanding, by establishing a body of knowledge about the current state of the RDN (Registered Dental Nurse) workforce within the UK from the perspective of RDNs. As such, it is the intention to share the results of the study with the dental nurse community and associated stakeholders.  This information then can be used to inform decisions regarding the measures most appropriate when seeking to retain and encourage RDNs to continue to contribute as part of the dental workforce within the UK.  The questionnaire is anonymous, and I would urge all current and former dental nurses  to participate.”

The survey is open to all current RDNs, as well as those who have left the profession recently. One of the aims of the survey is to find out why former RDNs have left the profession, and what could be done to persuade them to return.

The survey is available at www.badn.org.uk/retentionsurvey

HEIW to auto-enroll Welsh dental nurse students as BADN members

The British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), the professional association for dental nurses in the UK, is delighted to announce that Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), which supports the education and training of 3,675 Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) in Wales, will be automatically enrolling all of its student dental nurses as BADN Student Members from 2023.

“BADN membership involves student dental nurses in the dental nursing community” said BADN President Debra Worthington “and embeds the concepts of professionalism, ethics and life-long learning.  We warmly welcome HEIW’s new student dental nurse 2023 intake into the BADN family.”

Health Education Improvement Wales (HEIW) is dedicated to transforming the workforce for a healthier Wales.  It is a special health authority within NHS Wales and sits alongside health boards and trusts.  It has a leading role in the education, training, development and shaping of the workforce in Wales, in order to ensure high-quality care for the people of Wales.  One of the workstreams which is high on the agenda is workforce planning, addressing the recruitment and retention issue within dentistry and particularly dental nurses.  As part of the repsonse, one aspect has been to commission a dental nurse training programme, working in partnership with the NEBDN to run a dental nurse diploma course commencing in June.  HEIW realises the importance of dental nurses being a part of their professional organisation right from the beginning of their career, and will enrol all of their trainees with the BADN as student members so they can enjoy the benefits right from the start. 

“As a member of  BADN for almost the whole of my professional life (some 40 years) I have had the benefit of being supported by them at every stage of my career as a dental nurse.” said  Kathryn Marshall, HEIW’s Head of Dental Workforce Development.  “Our students who are new to the dental workforce will have the advantage of being part of their profession right at the start of their career. HEIW and BADN will continue to work together to support these dental nurses beyond their training,  so they can enjoy a fullfilling career and make a difference to the oral health of the population of Wales”.

BADN Student Membership, which costs £10 per year, offers student dental nurses access to the quarterly digital “British Dental Nurses’ Journal”; the Legal Helpline; the Health & Wellness Hub offering articles and information on physical, mental and financial health as well as the counselling/support helpline; BADN Rewards, which offers a wide range of special offers and discounts on shopping, insurance, lifestyle, travel and much more; the members’ area of the BADN website www.badn.org.uk with information and advice; and the Totum Pro discount card.  Once they are qualified RDNs and progress to Full Membership, they will also have access to special member rate indemnity cover and CPD, including the BADN Personal Development Planners and CPD Activity Logs.  It is estimated that judicious use of membership benefits can potentially save BADN members around £450 per year[1].

Student dental nurses (and Registered Dental Nurses) can join BADN at www.badn.org.uk/join.  Other dental nurse training providers wishing to enrol their students as BADN Student Members are invited to contact BADN’s Chief Exec Pam Swain on 01253 338365.

Reference:

[1] Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. Savings Calculator  – This average member saving is based on a sample of 367 savings calculator entries since 01/01/2013 with repeated entries and the top 20% removed. The average saving figure is correct as of 09/02/2023. Potential savings generated from the calculator are not guaranteed, and are based on the use of specific benefits.   BADN Rewards is managed and run on behalf of BADN by Parliament Hill Ltd

MP supports dental nurses

Following a meeting with BADN President Debra Worthington, Labour MP Cat Smith (Fleetwood & Lancaster) – who spoke recently in the House of Commons about the state of NHS dentistry in her constituency and the difficulties faced by her constituents on accessing NHS dental care – has written to both the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

In her letter to the Secretary of State for Health & Social Care, the Right Honourable Steve Barclay MP,  Ms. Smith addresses the issues of pay and lack of recognition by the NHS of dental nurses, leading to the current crisis in dental nurse recruitment and retention.  In her letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Right Honourable Jeremy Hunt MP, Ms. Smith requests that tax relief on CPD costs for employees be introduced in the next Budget.

“Cat Smith has spoken publicly about problems with access to NHS dentistry” said Debra Worthington.  “Following our meeting, she now understands fully that the crisis in dental nurse recruitment and retention is exacerbating these access problems; and that the crisis has been caused by lack of recognition of dental nurses as vital members of the dental team, the ridiculously low levels of pay – particularly in general dental practice – and the costs dental nurses have to meet in order to be able to practise their profession.

“The British Association of Dental Nurses – the UK’s professional association for dental nurses – welcomes Ms. Smith’s recognition of the importance of dental nurses in the provision of oral health care and thanks her for her continuing support.”

BADN launches dental nurse recruitment and retention survey

The British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), the UK’s professional association for dental nurses, is conducting a survey on dental nurse recruitment and retention for Dr Debbie Reed of the University of Kent.

Dr Reed, herself a Registered Dental Nurse, a former Chair of BADN and a Fellow of the College of General Dentistry (CGDent), is currently Director of Studies in Advanced and Specialist Healthcare and Course Director of the MSc in Advanced and Specialist Health in Global and Lifelong Learning  at the University of Kent. “I am delighted to be working with BADN on this survey” she said “because it is essential to gain insight into the dental nurse community at this time of uncertainty, and to gather that insight taking an ethically approved, methodologically sound research approach.  BADN, as the professional body for dental nurses in the UK, is the ideal conduit by which to reach Registered Dental Nurses.” 

“The aim of the study is to provide insight, by establishing a body of knowledge about the current state of the RDN workforce within the UK, from the perspective of RDNs.  As such, it is the intention to share the results of the study with the dental nurse community and associated stakeholders. This information then can be used to inform decisions regarding the measures most appropriate when seeking to retain and encourage RDNs to continue to contribute as part of the dental workforce within the UK.”

“The questionnaire is anonymous, and I would urge all dental nurse colleagues to participate; access will be gained via the BADN website www.badn.org.uk towards the end of February.  All current BADN members will be sent the access link through their membership system; links will also be available on the BADN Facebook and Twitter accounts, and in the e-newsletter to be sent to all those on the BADN e-newsletter distribution list.”

“The current crisis in dental nurse recruitment and retention has a negative impact on access to dental services in the UK” said BADN President Debra Worthington.  “BADN will be reaching out to all our current, and past, members – as well as to non-members through our social media channels and e-newsletters in a concerted effort to find out why dental nurses are leaving the profession and what could be done to persuade them to stay.”

Debra Worthington becomes new BADN President

At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the UK’s professional association for dental nurses, the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), held on Tuesday 22 November 2022 at the Naval & Military Club, London and via Zoom, Debra Worthington took over the role of President from Jacqui Elsden.

Debra has been a dental nurse for 43 years; working in General Dental Practice, Community Dental Service and Secondary Care.  Debra holds post registration qualifications in Conscious Sedation, Radiography, Oral Health and Orthodontics.  She also has qualifications in Leadership and Management and recently completed the NHS Senior Leadership qualification. 

She joined Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in March 2021, and is the Head of Dental Service for the North East sector of Greater Manchester.  Debra has eighty staff working across Oldham, Rochdale and Bury, providing paediatric dentistry, special care dentistry, general anaesthesia, treatment with inhalation sedation and oral health promotion.  Debra is a member of the Managed Clinical Networks in Greater Manchester, for both paediatric and special care dentistry. 

Prior to this she was the Maxillofacial Unit Manager at Salford Royal Hospital; a busy unit comprising of maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery, orthodontics and community dentistry.  She successfully implemented the Mouth Care Matters programme within the acute trust and was successful in acquiring transformation funding to implement the programme in the care homes in Salford.

Debra has been a member of the Orthodontic National Group (ONG) since its inception in 1994 and has been a committee member for 21 years; serving a Chairman for nine years and president for three years, a term which ended in 2021.  Debra was an active member of the working group which saw the introduction of orthodontic therapists, work which included writing the syllabus for course and working with the GDC to write and implement the Scope of Practice; she is a past examiner for the Royal College of Surgeons (Edin) for the orthodontic therapy examination.   Prior to GDC registration Debra was part of the working party which implemented the first Scope of Practice for dental nurses and has been involved in the last two reviews.

Debra has recently been a member of the Advancing Dental Care review group,  a three-year review looking at dental education and the training infrastructure to best support patient and population needs.  Debra has received two national awards; one presented by the British Orthodontic Society and one by the British Dental Association, for Outstanding Contribution to Dentistry and Orthodontics.

At the AGM, Sarah Haslam became a Fellow of BADN and received her Fellowship Certificate from Immediate Past President Jacqui Elsden; who also presented  a pearl pendant and a scrapbook of messages to Chief Exec Pam Swain to mark her 30 years with BADN.

The AGM was followed by an Afternoon Tea at the Club for those who had attended in person.

Unrepresented dental nurses treated more harshly by GDC

Figures released by the General Dental Council (GDC) in response to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request show that 72% of Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) did not have legal representation when facing a GDC Fitness to Practise hearing[1].

The figures also show that 77% of DCPs without legal representation were suspended or erased from the Register and only 10% were concluded with no adverse findings.  However, only 32% of those with legal representation were suspended or erased and 39% were concluded with no adverse findings.

In response to a query on this subject by Dental Review (www.dentalreview.news), a  spokesperson for the GDC said  “While the vast majority of dental professionals will never be involved in a fitness to practise investigation we have spoken before about the importance of engaging in the process for those who have had a concern raised about them. The findings of our research on The concept of Seriousness in fitness to practise, published earlier this year, highlighted the potential for more adverse outcomes in cases where professionals either do not engage or where they represent themselves. It also found that dentists were reported as having higher levels of representation when compared to dental care professionals. The requirements for healthcare professionals’ indemnity are set by Government and we will provide support as needed for any work on this issue.”

The UK’s professional association for dental nurses, the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN) is therefore  urging all dental nurses to obtain indemnity cover which includes legal fees for GDC investigations.  Current BADN members can obtain indemnity cover at reduced cost via a special members’ link when they join or renew their BADN membership.

“The BADN indemnity scheme, underwritten by CFC Ltd,  is dental nurse specific” said Siobhan O’Callaghan, Chief Operating Officer of Trafalgar Risk Management (TRM) who provide the BADN scheme.  “It was designed with dental nurses in mind – not as an add-on to a dentist’s cover; is individual, so goes with the dental nurse if she changes jobs; and includes legal fees for GDC investigations.  It is also an insurance scheme, rather than a mutual, so BADN members can be confident that they are suitably covered for their dental nursing activities under the GDC Scope of Practice.”

Membership of BADN is currently £35pa for Registered Dental Nurses, with special rates for part time workers and those on maternity leave.  Other benefits of BADN membership, in addition to the purchase of indemnity cover at special member rates, include a Legal Helpline, Health & Wellness Hub including a support/counselling Helpline, the digital quarterly “British Dental Nurses’ Journal” with verifiable CPD, and BADN Rewards – a wide range of special offers and discounts on travel/home/car/life insurance, travel, high street shopping, Apple products, motoring and much more!

Dental nurses can join their professional association at www.badn.org.uk/join

[1] Medical Protection Press Release,  23 August 2022

Female dental professionals must be supported through menopause

Female dentists and dental care professionals (DCPs) should be well supported through the menopause and perimenopause to ensure we retain passionate and skilled clinicians in the workforce for as long as possible, according to Dental Protection.

Dental Protection said around 93% of DCPs and 52% of dentists are female, and many could at some stage be impacted by menopause symptoms such as anxiety, depression, poor concentration, brain fog, dizziness and insomnia while doing their best to care for patients in challenging environments.

It said mental wellbeing support, awareness from practice owners and managers as well as workplace adjustments may help female dental professionals continue to perform at their best, and stay in the workforce for longer.

Yvonne Shaw, Deputy Director at Dental Protection, said: “The menopause and the associated symptoms can vary widely; however, we need to ensure female colleagues aren’t suffering in silence during this phase of their lives. Brain fog, forgetfulness, poor concentration and insomnia can make any job difficult, but particularly so in a challenging environment like dentistry.

“All female dental colleagues suffering with symptoms should feel comfortable to discuss workplace adjustments and seek mental wellbeing support. Providing a working environment that is open and supportive helps to ensure those affected do not feel isolated. Having a menopause workplace policy can ensure wider understanding and provide reassurance that support will be available if needed. Managers and practice owners should consider training on the menopause and how the symptoms can impact on the wellbeing of some individuals and the wider team.

“If we do not destigmatise menopause, we may lose many skilled and highly valued dental professionals during a time when the profession can ill-afford it. A supportive culture will alleviate additional stress, enable individuals to continue to perform at their best for patients, and thrive in their careers for longer.”

Dental Protection recommendations:

  1. Dental practice owners should consider whether they have adequate procedures and support in place to help all staff affected by the menopause, for example by introducing a menopause policy, flexible working arrangements, and procedures which ensure those affected can seek support without fear of adverse impacts on their career or professional reputation.
  2. All staff, including new dentists and DCPs joining the profession, as well as those who are already practising, should be trained on the menopause.
  3. Dental professionals who may be struggling with menopause symptoms themselves should seek support and professional advice on options to manage symptoms and lifestyle measures. Dental Protection also has a role to play – we listen to and care for members, including offering support with their wellbeing and our 24/7 confidential counselling service is available for those struggling with the menopause.

Practice owners and managers should consider training on the menopause, including the impact the symptoms can have on working females and their teams. Anyone who is suffering with menopausal symptoms should feel supported, and able to discuss any necessary changes to working arrangements.

BADN welcomes Dental Protection statement

The British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), the UK’s professional association for dental nurses, welcomes the statement issued by Dental Protection.

BADN has recently published its Menopause Guide and Policy for dental practices to adopt in support of menopausal employees.  This BADN Policy has been endorsed by the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT), the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), the British Dental Industry Association (BDIA), the College of General Dentistry (CGDent), the Dental Laboratories’ Association (DLA), the Dental Technologists’ Association (DTA), the Orthodontic National Group (ONG) and the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).  The BADN Menopause Policy document is available on the BADN website.

“We are delighted that Dental Protection are supporting BADN’s move to increase awareness of menopause” said BADN President-elect Debra Worthington “to encourage discussion of the issues facing menopausal women in the workforce.  We recognise that this is still a difficult subject for many people and have produced this advice sheet with lists of relevant legislation, useful articles/websites and  a specimen policy to break this taboo.”

In the UK, 99% of dental nurses, 96% of orthodontic therapists, 94% of dental hygienists,  92% of dental therapists, 52% of dentists and 27% of dental technicians are female – 78% of the regulated dental profession as a whole – and the policy outlines the challenges faced by menopausal women in the workplace and suggests ways in which employers can support menopausal employees.

BADN Chief Exec, Pam Swain, celebrates 30 years with the Association

At its recent 80 + 2 Anniversary Afternoon Tea at the NEC Hilton on Saturday 14 May 2022, the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), UK’s professional association for dental nurses, also celebrated Chief Exec Pam Swain’s 30 years working for the Association.

BADN President Jacqui Elsden presented Pam with a gold bracelet from former and current Presidents, Executive Committee members and staff.  Pam was also awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Association.

“It was a delight to present Pam with an Honorary Membership by way of our sincere thanks for her 30 years of dedicated service to BADN at our 80+2 years anniversary celebrations in May 2022,” said Jacqui. “Having had two roles within BADN during the past 6 years (Education Representative and now as President), I have witnessed first hand Pam’s strong work ethic and exemplary organisational and networking skills. It makes my role as President all the easier knowing that I have that support behind me. Pam has been BADN’s ‘one constant’ over the last 30 years and I personally would like to thank her for ensuring that our Dental Nursing Professional Association remains accessible to all Dental Nurses (trainees and qualified) despite the many challenges along the way. Very many congratulations Pam.”

Several BADN Past Presidents attended the Anniversary Tea and celebrated Pam’s 30 year anniversary.  “Pam has been the constant driving force behind our Association, for the 30 years that she has been our Chief Executive,” said Immediate Past President Hazel Coey.  “Following the years that I have been involved, as a member of the Council, Regional Co-Ordinator, Treasurer, President-Elect and President, Pam has amazed and delighted me with her experience, knowledge and professionalism. 

“Without her guiding influence, the British Association of Dental Nurses would not be the one true professional organisation that it is today. It certainly would not be celebrating its 82nd year!”

“For the last thirty of BADN’s 80 years, Pam has been guiding and nurturing Council and members, using her extensive knowledge and expertis,“ said Past President Paula Sleight.  “Her international background working for organisations such as NATO, Hilton International and the Bank of Bermuda, brought a fresh perspective to  BADN.

“She has been integral to BADN’s development over the last thirty years, where there have been many changes – including the  reclaiming of the title “dental nurse” (we were previously known as Dental Surgery Assistants or DSAs).  Pam was there for all the Presidents and Chairmen of the Association as we campaigned for statutory registration and recognition of dental nurses as valued members of the dental team.

“Pam has always brought innovative management methods to the Association, and has tirelessly helped members develop to their full potential.”

Past President Angie Heilmann (formerly McBain) MBE agrees.  “It was pleasure to be present with colleagues at the BADN’s recent Anniversary Tea, not only to celebrate the longevity of the Association, but also the 30 years of Pam working for the Association. Pam has an unfaltering commitment to BADN and the work it undertakes. Within  various BADN roles spanning over 11 years, I witnessed the how Pam works with focus and dedication. Congratulations, and thank you Pam! “

“Dedicated to Dental Nursing for the past 30 years, Pam Swain has been the stalwart and unsung mainstay of BADN,” said former Chairman Dr Debbie Reed.

“Since 1992 Pam has provided reason, experienced insight, and continuity to the organisation.  She has offered support and guidance for enumerable past Presidents and to the countless members of the BADN Executive team, as well as the BADN members who represent a huge number of the dental nurses registered in the UK.

“During her 30 years, Pam has worked tirelessly to promote dental nursing and encourage dental nurses in their professional pursuit.

“For BADN and it’s members, Pam has been the strongest advocated for Dental Nursing. Her indefatigable presence is formidable and thus ensured that dental nursing is recognised, acknowledged, and holds representative seats at the table of critical and decision making national dental sector forums. 

“Taken together Pam’s influence and determination approach has ensured that BADN is recognised as the representative professional body for Dental Nursing in the UK,  and her voice has been vital to promoting dental nurses and their key role in oral health care within the UK. For that she is appreciated and applauded. Thank you.”

Past President and Chairman Pat Heap, who interviewed Pam for the job in 1992, said “It does not seem 30 years since I interviewed Pam for the role of Secretary – at interview she was by far the best candidate and over the past 30 years has proved to be an asset to the Association ensuring the advancement of dental nurses, giving help and advice to those needing it. Well done, Pam, and congratulations on 30 years continuous service to the advancement of dental nursing.”

“In August this year, Pam  completes 30 years of service with BADN” said current Chairman Joan Hatchard “making her the longest serving Chief Executive of any dental professional association.  In 1992, BADN had fewer than five hundred members; the Association was largely ineffective, had little or no influence and lacked direction and drive – members were not provided with professional support.  Pam’s appointment was a turning point for the Association; she dragged it into the 20th century and put it onto a business-like footing.  Due to Pam’s hard work over nearly 30 years as CEO, membership is booming and she has worked tirelessly to transform and steer BADN to the highly regarded position within the profession which it now holds.

“BADN now provides a large level of support for its members including access to professional indemnity insurance, a legal helpline, a quarterly Journal with CPD, a health and wellness hub and BADN Rewards – all  of which  have been instigated by Pam.  The profile of the Association has been raised by her articles and regular columns for several dental publications and also by her speaking at dental nursing and other events.

“During the pandemic crisis, Pam helped in the process of enabling dental nurses to be recognised as “key workers” and supported dental nurses through a difficult time. She works to continually highlight the essential role played by dental nurses within the dental team; and was recently voted one of the Top 50 Most Influential People in Dentistry.

“Over the last 30 years Pam has been a tremendous force for good for patients, dental nurses and the dental profession.”

Photo caption: Pam Swain is presented with flowers by the BADN Executive Committee. Left-to-right: Anita Stanforth, Debra Worthington, Jacqui Elsden, Pam, Joan Hatchard

BADT shows support for BADN Menopause Policy

The British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT) has announced its support for the BADN Menopause Policy launched in March this year.

The Policy outlines the challenges faced by menopausal women in the workplace and suggests ways in which employers can support menopausal employees.  Dental practices, laboratories, clinics, organisations and dental industry companies are asked to adopt the Policy and implement it in their workplace.

BADT President Debbie Hemington said, “BADT are proud to support this superb initiative by the BADN. As a predominantly female profession still, this will impact so many of our members and their families and having some written guidance to share with workplaces will be invaluable to anyone who needs it. BADN are to be commended on highlighting the impact of this topical issue and in raising awareness among the whole dental team. Dental practices could now lead the way by adopting the policy and showing that progress within the field is not confined to clinical techniques.”

BADN’s Menopause Policy is also supported by the British Society of Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), the College of General Dentistry (CGDent), the Dental Laboratories Association (DLA), the Dental Technologists’ Association (DTA), the Orthodontic National Group (ONG), and the British Veterinary Nurses’ Association (BVNA).

The advice sheet/policy is available on the BADN website www.badn.org.uk

College of General Dentistry endorses BADN’s Menopause Policy

The College of General Dentistry (CGDent) has endorsed the BADN’s recently launched Menopause Policy.

In the UK, 99% of dental nurses, 96% of orthodontic therapists, 94% of dental hygienists,  92% of dental therapists, 52% of dentists and 27% of dental technicians are female – 78% of the regulated dental profession as a whole – and the policy outlines the challenges faced by menopausal women in the workplace and suggests ways in which employers can support menopausal employees. 

The Association is asking dental practices, laboratories and clinics to adopt the policy and implement it in their workplace, and is asking dental organisations to support it by encouraging its widespread adoption.

The College of General Dentistry, membership of which is open to all dental and oral health professionals, is the first organisation representing dentists to do so. The College is the independent professional body into which the Faculty of General Dental Practice transferred last year, and is the UK’s only medical college run by and for oral health professionals.

Abhi Pal, President of the College of General Dentistry, said: “The BADN’s Menopause Policy is an important, practical and succinct tool which helps dental professionals to better understand the menopause, to appreciate relevant employment law, and to implement a menopause policy in their practice. Making appropriate adjustments for staff affected by the menopause is both a moral duty enabling committed and experienced colleagues to remain in valuable employment, and a legal duty not to discriminate on the grounds of gender, age or disability. Supportive dental practices and understanding employers will also find they benefit in return from improved staff retention and reduced sickness absence. On behalf of the College, I congratulate BADN on its publication, and am pleased to endorse it.”

The BADN’s Menopause Policy is also supported by the British Society of Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT), the British Dental Industry Association (BDIA), the Dental Laboratories Association (DLA), the Dental Technologists’ Association (DTA), the Orthodontic National Group (ONG), and the British Veterinary Nurses’ Association (BVNA).

The advice sheet/policy is available on the BADN website www.badn.org.uk