BDIA launches skills board
Aims to develop a long-term, sustainable approach to skills development
The British Dental Industry Association (BDIA) has launched a Sector Skills Board, bringing together 20 industry leaders to develop a long-term, sustainable approach to skills development and help ensure the sector has the workforce it needs for the future.
The inaugural meeting, held on 29 July, marked the first time that manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, training organisations and the Association of Dental Groups (ADG) had come together through a dedicated industry forum to focus on skills, training and workforce development.
As the dental sector continues to evolve through innovation, changing workforce trends and developments in clinical practice, the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce has never been greater. The new Skills Board has been established to support the industry by fostering collaboration, identifying priorities and championing practical solutions that will help build a strong and sustainable workforce for the future, ensuring the sector is well placed to meet patient needs and deliver high-quality care.
The board’s first meeting set the direction for its future work, with members agreeing that attracting new talent, developing consistent and measurable industry standards and benchmarks and supporting workforce retention are three key priorities.
Discussions also explored how the industry can work more closely with education providers and employers to create clearer career pathways, while encouraging greater investment in skills development and training across all roles within the sector.
The launch of the Skills Board reflects a shared ambition across the industry and the wider profession to work together to address future workforce needs. Collaboration with professional partners will be central to the Board’s work, helping to ensure its discussions and initiatives remain aligned with the needs of the profession. By bringing together expertise from across the sector, the Board will provide a forum for sharing knowledge, generating ideas and helping to shape the future of skills within dentistry.
BDIA Commercial Director Mark Hyde said: “This is an important moment for our industry. We’ve brought together people with a wide range of experience from across the dental sector, all with a shared goal of strengthening skills and supporting the workforce of the future. I would also like to thank everyone who has given their time and expertise to help launch what I believe will be an incredibly exciting and transformational initiative for our industry.”
“There was a real sense of energy in the room at our first meeting. Everyone recognised the opportunities our sector has to offer, and there is a clear willingness to work together to attract new talent, support professional development and retain skilled people across the industry. By working collaboratively, we can help build a stronger workforce that supports innovation, growth and the delivery of high-quality patient care for years to come.”
The Skills Board will meet regularly throughout the year as it develops its programme of work, collaborating with organisations across the dental sector to support skills development, strengthen training opportunities and encourage more people to build rewarding careers within the industry.