BADN at the Dental Leadership Network

BADN was proud to attend the Dental Leadership Network, hosted by the General Dental Council, on 24th March, focusing on delivering safe and effective oral health for those most in need.

The day’s agenda reflected this important focus, opening with discussion on equitable access, excellent patient experience and optimal outcomes, followed by sessions on how insight and research can support the delivery of good oral health for underserved communities.

BADN was represented by Preetee Hylton (President), Pam Swain (Chief Executive), Carolyn Roberts (President-elect), and Jane Dalgarno (Education Representative), demonstrating our continued commitment to supporting this vital area of work.
Their presence contributed to a day of shared learning and professional dialogue, with representatives from across the sector coming together to address barriers to care and explore practical leadership solutions.

This important event brought together professionals from across the oral healthcare community to explore how we can collectively improve access, patient experience, and outcomes for vulnerable populations.
The programme also included a patient-perspective session, a panel discussion exploring what we mean by safe, effective oral healthcare, and a collaborative workshop focused on the barriers faced by key groups most in need, including people experiencing homelessness, older adults, migrants and refugees, rural communities, neurodivergent patients, people with disabilities, those living with mental health conditions, and ethnic and racial minorities.
It was encouraging to see such strong alignment and shared commitment across the profession.

The programme featured a range of outstanding speakers from various establishments, who highlighted both the challenges and the impactful work being undertaken across the sector.
We are particularly proud that BADN Representative Sakina Needham delivered a powerful five-minute lightning talk, which was both insightful and impactful; her contribution, alongside many inspiring speakers throughout the day, reinforced the importance of collaboration, compassion, and innovation in addressing oral health inequalities.
Her presentation, “Five things to consider when delivering to those most in need,” was an important part of a wider programme that also included discussion on the role of working groups and opportunities for further sector involvement.

Events such as this play a vital role in strengthening our professional community and driving forward meaningful change.
The British Association of Dental Nurses remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote equitable, safe, and effective oral healthcare for all.