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  5. UDA contract changes: Information and advice

On 1 April 2026, the NHS contract in England will change in a number of areas from urgent care to complex care, and prevention to quality improvement. These are meaningful improvements, but certainly not the final destination. Ultimately, our goal is clear: Phase out the UDA entirely and replace it with a prevention-focused contract.

For now, we are here to support you in navigating the imminent changes, whether you are a practice owner or an associate dentist.

Exclusively for BDA members

New model BDA Associate Contract

Our revised model Associate Contract for NHS and Mixed in England incorporates updated terms in light of the UDA changes.
For associates For practice owners
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Advice for practice owners

Advice

NHS dental contract changes in England from April 2026: Guide for practice owners

Guidance for practice owners on the NHS dental contract changes in England taking effect in April 2026, and what they mean for service delivery, activity, and remuneration.

Advice

Managing non-attendance in dental practices providing NHS care in England

Advice on how practices should manage non-attendance under the NHS in England and how best to mitigate the impact on your business.

Advice

Managing NHS unscheduled care activity in England

The unscheduled care mandate in NHS dentistry in England will introduce significant changes to how urgent and unplanned care is delivered and funded from April 2026.

Advice

Terminating your NHS dental contract in England

Advice on what to do if you are considering terminating your NHS dental contract in England.

More advice for practice owners

Advice for associates

Advice

NHS dental contract changes in England from April 2026: Guide for associates

Guidance for associates on the NHS dental contract changes in England taking effect in April 2026, and how it will impact your working environment and remuneration.

Advice

BDA Associate Contract (NHS and mixed in England): Guide for associates

Advice on our model Associate Contract and how it can help you update and strengthen your associate agreement in light of the 2026 NHS contract changes in England.

More advice for associates

Webinars and courses

Event

NHS Contract (England) - Owners (webinar recording)

Exclusive access for members: This is a recording of a webinar that was delivered on Tuesday 17 March to help practice owners understand how to work with the new NHS contract, including changes to associate agreements and how to make sure pay is fair.

Event

NHS Contract (England) - Associates (webinar recording)

Exclusive access for members: This is a recording of a webinar that was delivered on Tuesday 3 March to help associate members understand how to work with the new NHS contract, including changes to associate agreements and how to make sure pay is fair.

Exclusively for BDA members

Webinar: Understanding NHS care packages

From late June 2026, new NHS care packages and changes to denture modification claims will affect contract delivery in England. This free member-only webinar will help you understand the changes and how they may impact your work and practice.
Find out more and book
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We will publish additional advice and resources for members once Government publishes the final details. Please review your email preferences to stay in the know.

 

Bespoke help when you need it

1-2-1 advice for Extra and Expert members

As an Extra or Expert member, you can rely on unlimited, one-to-one support from our industry experts whenever you need it. Whether you need quick guidance or in-depth support, our expert advisors are here to help.
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Related news & blogs

Blog

How we develop fair associate agreements for you in a shifting landscape

NHS contracts in England and Wales are changing, so here is what we factor into your associate agreement.

News

Government tie hands of practices on urgent care

Government’s move to force practices to deliver a minimum level of urgent and unscheduled care is wrong in principle and ignores the reality that demand for these treatments is not one size fits all.

Blog

England: Contract changes from April 2026: How we are shaping the final deal

GDPC Chair Shiv Pabary MBE: "As NHS England moves towards implementing contract changes, we are clear that improvements are long overdue, but the details matter."