Local Dental Committees (LDCs) were established in 1948 alongside the National Health Service to provide representation of dentists’ interests when consulted by local NHS commissioners. There are 110 LDCs across the United Kingdom. In England and Wales, the 1977 NHS Act formally recognised LDCs as the statutory representatives for primary care dentistry. While Scotland and Northern Ireland lack this statutory status, their LDCs regularly engage with local health boards.
Each year, a National Conference brings together:
• Delegates from all LDCs in England and Wales.
• Representatives from the Scottish Annual Conference of LDCs.
• Representatives from the Northern Ireland General Practice Committee.
• Members of the British Dental Association’s General Dental Practice Committee (GDPC).
This conference serves as the principal forum for discussing key issues in dentistry.
It ensures that the perspectives of practising dentists are heard and reflected in national representation.
The conference agenda is set by the elected Agenda Committee, with input from the Chair of the GDPC. The British Dental Association’s secretariat and Events Team support the organisation and logistics of the event.
Purpose of the Annual Conference
• Receive updates from the Chair of the GDPC on national negotiations affecting dentistry
• Facilitate informed debate on issues impacting the profession, shaping future GDPC policy
• Provide opportunities for networking and sharing best practice across localities.