Contract reform in Wales
The Welsh Government’s proposed model contract will have real implications for every dentist and every patient in Wales
We are still awaiting updates from Welsh Government as the 2026 GDS Contract progresses through two parallel processes: legislation is being processed and the operational details are being developed. We are aware this prolonged delay is presenting dilemmas for dentists across Wales and will provide information to members as we receive it.
We support reform in principle, but the proposed 2026 General Dental Service contract model for Wales risks worsening access, morale, and outcomes. There are many elements that need to change. This was clear from dentists’ opinions in our survey.
In ongoing discussions with the Welsh Government, we continue to represent your interests and provide you with the information you need to understand what the contract proposal will mean for you.
The contract proposals were consulted on until 19 June 2025. We submitted a formal response and the Government announced the results of the consultation in the last week of September but did not release details of the contract. We still await the release of the model contract from Welsh Government ahead of regulations being laid in the Senedd and are aware this delay in receiving the details is presenting dilemmas for dentists across Wales who are considering whether to hand back their contract.
Implementation and task and finish groups are meeting regularly to consider the information that is available on the model contract and provide you with detailed guidance.
We will keep you up to date every step of the way with further developments as we receive them.
What it means for you
We have outlined our views on the proposed contract, which were included in our formal response.
Related events
Webinar: Contract reform in Wales part 3 (29 January)
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