Dominic Innes-Taylor – Clinical Fellow 2023-24 hosted at the Office of the Chief Dental Officer England

Understanding how we fit into our local organisations, let alone the wider healthcare leadership structure of the NHS, can be challenging. This fellowship peeled back the curtain on the dental political landscape, showed me the relevance of my voice, and revealed a variety of career opportunities.

Throughout the year, FMLM courses provided an in-depth understanding of leadership and project management. Alongside the corporate skills that fellows develop, these capabilities were fundamental to supporting meaningful improvements for patients within any organisation.

In addition to giving a taste of dental public health, my specific fellowship placement allowed me to write clinical guidance, bulletins and briefings, organise events, chair meetings, and also connect with former and new mentors. Inspired by the wonderful people who tirelessly work to drive system change, my passion for the NHS was all the more strengthened and playing my part in the dental workforce has never made me more proud.

Allaan Heewa – Clinical Fellow 2023-24 hosted at the General Dental Council

As part of the Chief Dental Officer England’s Clinical Fellow Scheme, I had the privilege of working with the General Dental Council (GDC). This year-long fellowship provided me with a transformative experience that significantly expanded my understanding of healthcare regulation and policy.

During my fellowship, I was deeply immersed in projects that directly influenced the strategic direction of dental regulation and patient safety. Collaborating with senior leaders at the GDC, I gained invaluable insight into how regulatory frameworks shape the provision of dental care and protect the public interest.

The experiential learning opportunities were unparalleled, equipping me with:

• a profound understanding of the regulatory landscape in dentistry
• enhanced leadership skills and the confidence to engage with multidisciplinary stakeholders
• the ability to critically analyse and contribute to policy development
• improved communication and presentation skills, which I applied in delivering impactful presentations to internal and external audiences

Some key projects I contributed to include:

Strengthening stakeholder engagement

I was involved in designing initiatives such as the Dental Leadership Network to improve communication between the GDC and dental professionals, fostering transparency and trust.

Policy review and development

I conducted research to support the modernisation of fitness-to-practice policies, ensuring they align with contemporary healthcare challenges.

Promoting professional standards

I contributed to campaigns such as the Principles of Professionalism which aimed to guide the standards of conduct, performance, and practice expected of dental professionals

Workforce planning and development

I contributed to strategic discussions about addressing workforce challenges in the dental sector, ensuring regulatory processes supported recruitment, retention and career progression.

This fellowship was not only an opportunity to make meaningful contributions but also a chance to develop professionally in ways I had not anticipated. The leadership training provided by the Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management was instrumental in honing my skills to drive change effectively.

Reflecting on this experience, I am immensely proud of the impact I made during my time at the GDC. The fellowship provided me with skills and insights that I continue to apply in my clinical and professional roles. I look forward to leveraging this experience to contribute to the future of dentistry and healthcare leadership.

Sunmeet Kandhari – Clinical Fellow 2021-22 hosted at the Care Quality Commission

I joined the Chief Dental Officer England’s Clinical Fellow Scheme in 2021 and was hosted by the Care Quality Commission.

The scheme provided me with invaluable opportunities to lead national projects, such as Smiling Matters: Three Years On, and offered a unique insight into how care is assessed and regulated. Collaborating with experienced leaders and like-minded fellows was truly transformational, significantly shaping my leadership approach. I learned the importance of bringing others along with you, gaining insight from all levels, and empowering individuals to succeed.

The challenges I encountered, particularly in a rapidly changing organisation, taught me resilience, problem-solving, and how to adapt when resources are limited.

I now apply these skills in my role as a dental officer in the British Army, where my improved understanding of leadership and safe, effective care influences my daily practice. I would strongly recommend this scheme to anyone eager to bring out the best in their teams and drive positive change.