The GDC published a report on the 4th November relating to dental professionals who died while fitness to practise (ftp) concerns were being investigated or remediated. This is the first report of its kind
Lord Harris notes that ” Every death is a tragedy, and when the data and what we are doing to improve FtP are put aside, what is left is the death of people, some in tragic circumstances, and we must consider the families, loved ones and colleagues for whom the pain and hurt are still very raw, and we offer them our condolences.”
To read the full report please follow the link below. As always, this content comes with a warning that it may cause distress or be a trigger. If you are feeling vulnerable please reach out (the Society has a subscription for members with Health Assurred which is a confidential service) the Society can speak to you initally and help you in accessing support. The Smaritans are available 365 days of the year and can be contacted free of charge, call 116 123 or email them at jo@samaritans.org.
Cheryl Goodenough, one of the key Mental Health and Well-being SIG members for the Society said
“We support the publication of the report by the General Dental Council and addressing this very sensitive subject with in the dental community.” “Dentistry can be an incredibly rewarding profession, but the unique stresses faced also call for compassion, understanding and well-being”. Cheryl goes on to say “Together, by recognising the importance of mental helth and supporting initiatives to safeguard it, we can help build a suportive and understanding community for all dental professionals.”
The Society has been passionate about mental health wellness for many years, we are part of the Mental Health Wellnness in Dentistry group and MindSetUK and support John Gibson and the amazing work by the team at the Canmore Trust. The Canmore Trust creates safe spaces for lives impacted by suicide https://thecanmoretrust.co.uk/