GDC seeks Fitness to Practise panellists
The General Dental Council (GDC) is seeking panellists to join its Fitness to Practise Panel.
It said in a statement: “Those engaged in this important role will make a vital contribution to public safety and public confidence in dental professionals, as part of the statutory committees that make decisions about dental professionals’ fitness to practise.
“This unique and flexible position will enable those engaged to expand their careers and develop their
skills, all while helping to improve patient safety and public confidence in the profession across the
UK.”
As the regulator for dental professionals, the GDC’s role includes investigating patients’ concerns
about professionals and coming to determinations about their fitness to practise dentistry in the UK.
These decisions are made by members of statutory committees at public adjudication hearings held
by the Dental Professionals Hearings Service. Those who hear cases and sit on committees are drawn from an independent Fitness to Practise Panel.
The GDC is looking for around 40 people; both lay people and dental professionals, from a range of backgrounds, to take part on a self-employed basis, in a role designed to fit around other work commitments.
The role requires a commitment of approximately 25 weekdays per year, and panellists need to be available on weekdays for a minimum of one week and up to three weeks at a time. Induction and annual development workshops are provided to successful applicants.
The GDC is looking for applicants who can demonstrate the following competencies:
- Understanding and interpreting rules, standards and guidance.
- Working with others on complex and sensitive issues.
- Professional communication skills.
- Embodying the values of fairness, integrity and respect.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
The GDC is particularly keen to encourage applications from dental care professionals (DCPs),
people from black, Asian, or other ethnic minority backgrounds, and those with a disability.
Michelle Williams, Executive Manager of the Dental Professionals Hearings Service (DPHS), said:
“Panellists play an important role in maintaining public safety and confidence in dentistry while learning new skills in a rewarding way. No two hearings are the same, making this an interesting role and one that will really make a difference. So, if you think you can make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.”
Further information and how to apply, go to: https://www.gdc-uk.org/about-us/who-we-are/fitness-to-
practise-panel/join-our-fitness-to-practise-panel
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