The BSDHT Member of the Year 2024 award highlights the exceptional contributions of dental hygienists and dental therapists within our community. We spoke with Miranda Steeples to get an inside look at this prestigious award and what it means for the profession.

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What can you tell us about the BSDHT Member of the Year 2024 award?

Miranda: The BSDHT Member of the Year 2024 award is an important accolade that celebrates outstanding dental hygienists and dental therapists and is sponsored by KIN, experts in oral health care. It aims to acknowledge their dedication, innovation and excellence in dental care, highlighting the crucial roles they play within the community.

What inspired the creation of this award?

The inception of this award was inspired by a similar competition run by the Irish Dental Hygienists' Association (IDHA). Recognising the need to celebrate excellence within our own membership, BSDHT tailored this award to honour dental hygienists and dental therapists exclusively.

What makes this award stand out among others in the field?

While there are many awards available today, the BSDHT Member of the Year award stands out because it focuses on peer recognition. It highlights the importance of acknowledgement and appreciation from colleagues, fostering a sense of value and boosting morale within the profession.

How does the nomination process work?

Nominations for the award can be submitted by colleagues, recognising exceptional dental hygienists and dental therapists in their workplace. To be eligible, nominees must be members of the BSDHT. The selection is based on four key criteria: patient care; initiative; teamwork; and communication. These attributes reflect the comprehensive skills and dedication required in this profession.

Can you tell us more about the key criteria?

They include patient care, which ensures patients receive the highest standard of treatment and comfort. Initiative is also important, as it demonstrates the ability to innovate and improve practices. Teamwork is essential, highlighting the collaborative spirit necessary in a dental setting. Lastly, communication is crucial for effectively conveying information to patients and colleagues.

What challenge will finalists face this year?

Finalists will be asked to design a patient education leaflet. This task requires them to distil their extensive knowledge into an accessible, informative and visually appealing format. It's a chance for them to demonstrate their skill in educating and involving patients, showcasing their proficiency in those all-important areas of patient care, innovation, collaboration and communication.

What tips do you have for creating an effective patient education leaflet?

Firstly, using vibrant imagery can make the leaflet visually appealing. Breaking down information into clear bullet points helps ensure it is easily digestible. Including diverse graphics that reflect the community can enhance engagement. Lastly, I recommend thorough proofreading and having a colleague review the content to maintain accuracy and clarity, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of the leaflet.

The winner will receive a package including £1,000 in prize money, a printed copy of their leaflet, a trophy, and a framed certificate.

What can winners and finalists expect to gain from participating in this competition?

Winners and finalists can look forward to significant professional development. Their leaflets may be featured on the BSDHT website, providing a broader platform for sharing their expertise with the public. The winner will receive a package including £1,000 in prize money, a printed copy of their leaflet, a trophy, and a framed certificate. Additionally, four runner-up prizes will be awarded, each with a certificate recognising their outstanding contributions.

How has winning this award impacted previous winners?

The inaugural competition in 2023 saw Sakina Syed take home the top prize. Winning this award has bolstered her professional reputation, opened doors to further opportunities, and enhanced her contributions within the dental community. Beyond immediate recognition, the process of creating the leaflet hones invaluable skills in information transfer, design and patient communication.

What are the key dates for this year's award process?

Nominations must be submitted by 31 July. BSDHT and KIN will review all nominations and announce the finalists on 30 August. Finalists will then have until 20 September to complete their educational leaflets. Finalists are then required to attend the BSDHT Oral Health Conference (OHC) on 22 and 23 November in Harrogate.

What can finalists look forward to at the OHC?

This annual, flagship event is a hub of knowledge, networking and professional development, featuring various speakers and sessions. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with peers, gain insights from industry leaders, and celebrate achievements in a supportive environment.

How can interested parties learn more about the award and the conference?

For further information on the award and the OHC, visit https://www.bsdht.org.uk/bsdht-member-of-the-year-2024/.