Along with the many other benefits you get as part of your DDU membership, we've recently introduced a free associate contract checking and advice service available to both DDU associates and principals.
The new service is available as part of our comprehensive dento-legal advisory benefits. It comes at no extra cost to standard DDU membership, and accessing it won't affect subscription rates.
You can access it by calling our 24-hour dento-legal helpline.
Our expert dento-legal advisers are trained to handle the vast majority of queries. However, if you find yourself in a formal contract dispute we've also negotiated competitive rates (available only to DDU members) with specialist dental lawyers.
Read the FAQs below and visit our website to find out more.
FAQs
Why are you introducing this new service now?
We've seen a growing range of issues arising from associate agreements. Many of these can spread into dento-legal and ethical problems, some even leading to GDC referrals in which we later become involved. By extending our advice and support to cover a wider range of factors, we aim to stop contract issues leading to more complex problems.
Isn't this something the BDA provides to its members?
The BDA has provided a similar service, but the majority of UK dentists - including many DDU members - are not members of the BDA, and we're increasingly being asked for advice in this area.
Is the new contract checking service only available to associates, or can dental principals also use the service?
The service is available to both associates and principals. We recognise the benefits in having contracts that are clearly worded and executed, which can smooth working relationships to the benefit of both parties and help reduce future dento-legal problems.
DDU dental principals also have access to a free employment law advice line provided by Peninsula for other employment matters such as guidance on managing staff conduct or performance.
Is the new contract checking service only for associate contracts? What about hygienists and therapists for instance?
The new service is also available for self-employed hygienist and therapist contracts.
Does that mean the DDU will be representing both the associate and the principal in an argument over a contract?
No. We can provide a model contract, which is designed to be fair and equitable and can be used by both parties. We can offer general advice about what this provides and how to use it, but we won't deal with specific disputes.
What happens if my case is so serious or complicated that I need to take further legal action?
Our advisers will be able to support you in most cases without your needing to seek specialist legal support. However, if you need to take things further, we can provide an introduction to specialist dental lawyers with considerable experience in handling dental contracts. We've also negotiated a competitive rate for DDU members wanting further support.