If you’re an associate dentist, there’s important news you’ll want to be aware of. The GDC has recently completed a thorough review of the current working arrangements, and the upshot is a significant change in how associates will be categorised: moving from self-employed to ‘worker’ status.
This decision by the GDC isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a strategic move to ensure that practices are fully aligned with the evolving legal landscape here in the UK. Essentially, it’s about providing an environment that gives more benefits and clarity for associates.
Gurvinder Soomal, the GDC’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the importance of this shift, stating, “We value the expertise and dedication our associates bring to dental regulation, and these changes ensure we maintain the flexibility that benefits everyone and is aligned with current legal requirements.” He also emphasised that this is a crucial step towards bringing clarity to engagement practices while recognising the vital role associates play.
What Does ‘Worker’ Status Mean for You?
The move to worker status comes with a suite of significant benefits designed to enhance the terms of engagement for associates. These include:
- Historic Holiday Pay: Acknowledging past contributions, eligible associates will now receive historic holiday pay.
- Matched Pension Contributions: Access to the GDC pension scheme through auto-enrolment, along with matched contributions, subject to eligibility.
- Future Annual Leave Entitlement: This will be paid as a supplementary payment once certain threshold requirements are met.
- Learning and Development Opportunities: Greater access to resources that support your professional growth.
Maintaining Flexibility and Relationships
It’s important to note that while these enhancements bring tangible benefits, the GDC has made it clear that your day-to-day work won’t change. You’ll continue to work with your established associate managers, and the mutual flexibility that has always characterised these professional relationships will remain. There’s still no obligation for associates to accept a patient. This ensures that the dynamic working relationship remains largely the same, just with added security and benefits.
What Happens Next?
The plan is for a new contract to be provided to those associates identified very shortly.
If you are one of the selected associates and require some advice on the changes before deciding whether to agree to sign up, please contact Jonathan Jacobs who will be happy to help.
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