Council of the GDC freezes fees again

Dental professionals’ annual retention fee (ARF) will stay the same for a third year running following a decision made by the Council of the General Dental Council.

Council members decided not to increase the ARF for dentists later this year (deadline 31 December) and dental care professionals next year (31 July 2010). 

It means the cost of annual registration renewal for dentists will remain at £438 and £96 for dental care professionals. The cost of being on one of the GDC’s specialist lists stays at £52. 

President of the General Dental Council, Hew Mathewson said:

“We know living through the credit crunch isn’t easy for anyone. That’s why we’ve decided to hold registration fees at their current levels. I’m pleased to be able to say the Council has built up its reserves and will manage the budget effectively for the coming year without increasing fee levels”.

The GDC is funded by registrants’ fees and we take very seriously the importance of spending our budget responsibly. Our expenses include inspecting and monitoring training courses to ensure those joining the register are up to scratch. Dealing with complaints is our biggest expense – in particular the very small number which reach formal public hearings. We also attend events across the UK and produce publications, to help build and maintain high professional standards.

Ends

For media enquiries, please contact Edward Davies on 020 7009 2755 or edavies@gdc-uk.org

Notes to editors:

The annual fees will be payable as follows:
Dentists: £438 due in December 2009
Specialists: £52 due in December 2009
Dental care professionals: £96 due in July 2010