This reflects our commitment to telling this profession’s story, and to securing meaningful change for members and the millions they treat.
The award, judged by leaders from the very top of the UK public relations and public affairs industry, recognises communications professionals working within organisations, as opposed to agencies. Entrants were judged on the basis of their impact, with the BDA coming in first place, ahead of teams many times their size at companies such as Virgin Media O2 and Bupa.
Our small team of five campaigners was recognised for punching above their weight in moving NHS dentistry from the periphery to a top-tier doorstep issue and frontpage news, putting skillsets in both public relations and public affairs to work in tandem.
Our work has secured the highest levels of political traction for the service in its 77-year history, framing it not merely as an ongoing healthcare concern, but as a social justice issue during a cost-of-living crisis. “Whether in Parliament or in the press, we’ve set out to tell this profession’s story,” said BDA Chair Eddie Crouch. “And we’ve ensured it has led the debate and made the front pages. “Whether it's private dentists scapegoated by the Chancellor, or NHS colleagues left in the lurch by underfunding and failed contracts, we’ve spelled out the facts, defining problems and offering solutions that have set the agenda. “This award reflects our commitment to our members. It is your continued support that allows us to fly the flag for you and the challenges you face."
