Discrimination and sexual misconduct

Discrimination and sexual misconduct have no place in dentistry. Everyone should be treated equally and with respect, whether a patient, member of the public or part of the dental team. We should all feel safe at work and when accessing care.

All forms of discrimination and sexual misconduct are inherently serious, and any allegations of this type will be treated as such.  

We recommend to anyone experiencing such behaviour, to consider their own wellbeing and seek support as a first step. If you work in dentistry, you might want to seek support from your employer or colleagues or report the issue.

Speaking up when others are at risk

Speaking up is regarded as a dental professional responsibility. You should not remain silent if you witness discrimination, sexual misconduct or other behaviour that puts patients or your colleagues at risk. You may also need to report conduct that would reduce public trust in the dental profession.

You have a responsibility to record, report and take action.

We provide guidance for dental professionals on reporting. If you are in doubt about whether to report a matter to the GDC you should contact us.

Ending a professional relationship with a patient

There may be circumstances when the conduct or behaviour of a patient requires the dental team to end their professional relationship with them. Before doing so, you must be satisfied that your decision is fair and be able to justify your decision.

You should write to your patient to tell them about your decision and explain your reasons for it. You should take steps to ensure that arrangements are made promptly for the continuing care of the patient.

Employers and managers of dental professionals

Employers and managers should take prompt and effective steps to address allegations of discrimination or sexual misconduct. That should include providing support or access to health and wellbeing support to those who request it.

We set out the benefits of having a clear workplace EDI policy and the importance of employer support for those who may be subject to discrimination or sexual misconduct at work in our guide for managers and employers of dental professionals.

Reporting discrimination and sexual misconduct

We provide advice and guidance on reporting serious concerns about the conduct or behaviour of a dental professional. We will investigate if we receive a report that a dental professional has fallen short of our standards.

If you are an employee and are raising a concern in the public interest, you may be afforded additional protections as a whistleblower.

If you think there has been a criminal offence, report it to the police.

We provide a directory of organisations providing health and wellbeing support to those who are facing a fitness to practise investigation.