The chancellor has unveiled further support plans for jobs and workers hit by COVID-19 restrictions, through changes to the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and Job Support Scheme (JSS). But, the BDA says, it means colleagues with low to no NHS earnings ‘could be left dangerously exposed as we head into winter.’ The Chancellor has also confirmed that the temporary waiver of VAT on personal protective equipment would not be extended beyond the end of October.

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Read more: Chancellor increases packages for businesses and workers, but offers no support for self-employed...

Nearly half (45%) of UK dentists feel their mental wellbeing is worse compared to the start of the pandemic, and 48% say they feel pessimistic about the future, according to a Dental Protection survey. 58% cited loss of income/financial worries, and half of the respondents (50%) said adapting to new policies and guidance – including restrictions on appointments - was having the most impact on their mental wellbeing.

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Read more: Covid-19: Half of UK dentists feel pessimistic about the future

The CQC’s latest report divides into before and after Covid-19 and generally they were impressed with how staff had responded, going to ‘extraordinary lengths’ to protect those they cared for. However it points out that difficulties accessing NHS dental care, and the cost of dental treatment are a barrier to access for some people.

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Read more: CQC: NHS staff went to ‘extraordinary lengths’ to protect those they cared for during pandemic

The GDC has published several reports which provide statistics and examples of fitness to practise case handling undertaken during 2019. In addition to the statistical report, they have published six short insight reports covering decisions at the initial assessment stage for quarters three and four of 2019, including spotlight reports on concerns relating to consent and record keeping.

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Read more: Fitness to Practise statistical and insights reports 2019 published by GDC

The BDA has updated the profession on developments in the past week. These include: Free PPE for NHS providers, Addressing concerns over practice waiting rooms, The impact of the pandemic on stress and burnout. Specifically for Wales, they have advised on Clarity on treatment in local lockdown areas and New travel restrictions will not impact dentistry.

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Read more: COVID-19: Latest Updates for dentistry, October 2020