The General Dental Council (GDC) is currently recruiting 11 new council members.
The council is the governing body of the GDC and applicants need a strong commitment to patient protection and the promotion of confidence in the regulation of dental professionals.
At least one member must live or work wholly or mainly in each of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The task ahead
The regulation of healthcare professionals in the UK is undergoing major change and Government expectations about regulation are likely to result in significant changes in the way the GDC operates.
Council members will play key roles in the strategic development of the organisation and strategic performance management.
What current Council Members say
Dentist registrant Wakkas Khan says: 'Dentists have a vast array of skills, many of which they may be unaware of, that make them perfectly suited to such roles. To work with the GDC has given me a greater understanding of how lucky I am to be part of the dental fraternity.'
DCP registrants Janet Goodwin says: 'I have found the whole experience of being a Council member, challenging, thought provoking, but very rewarding, and would encourage anyone who feels they would like to contribute and experience a progressive, dynamic organisation to apply now. The Council is made up of a diverse range of people and professions, all of which are essential and valid in order to make the right decisions that will benefit both patients and registrants. Your experience is vital in helping to keep the balance within Council.'
Dentist registrant Denis Toppin says: 'Being a Council member has been the most fulfilling thing I have done in my professional life. It has made me more proud of my profession as I have observed their drive to improve the care they deliver to their patients and their willingness to embrace change.'
DCP registrant Hazel Fraser says: 'I have learnt a lot about the functions of an organisation including governance, strategy, audit and budget which can be applied to my professional life. I enjoy finding out about and knowing that the general public are being considered and protected by the regulatory body of the profession.'
Dentist registrant Elizabeth Davenport says: 'I was keen to be involved, but most importantly wanted to give something back to dentistry. I have achieved and influenced many changes in dental education over the years and therefore wanted the opportunity to take my expertise into the wider public regulatory arena.'
Timetable
Closing date: 5pm Friday 3 May 2013
Preliminary interviews: w/c 3 June and w/c 10 June 2013
Final interviews: w/c 1 July and w/c 8 July
Appointment start date: 1 October 2013
Time commitment required will be 36 days per year and remuneration is £15,000 per annum.
You can apply online here – https://www.gdccouncilmembers.com/.
