Dr Nichol officially assumed the role at BSPD’s National Study Day in York, succeeding Dr Oosh Devalia OBE. Her presidential year will concentrate on three key areas: strengthening the paediatric dentistry workforce, championing Community Dental Services, and integrating oral health into neighbourhood health services.
This appointment acknowledges Dr Nichol’s extensive dedication to enhancing children's oral health and her significant experience within Community Dental Services. She expressed her honour, stating, “It is a huge honour to become President of BSPD. Throughout my career I have been passionate about making a positive difference to children and their families through specialist dental care.”
Dr Nichol added that her presidential year will focus on understanding access to specialist dental services, strengthening the workforce, highlighting the importance of Community Dental Services, and finding practical solutions to reduce inequalities and improve care for children across the UK.
Brent Kilmurray, Chief Executive of Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, congratulated Dr Nichol, recognising her substantial contributions to paediatric dentistry and children's oral health both locally and nationally. He noted that her presidency positions the Trust at the forefront of national discussions on supporting children, young people, and families.
Dr Nichol’s career has been significantly shaped by her involvement with Community Dental Services. Her specialist training, which included experience in both a Community Dental Service and a dental hospital, has provided her with a unique perspective on children's dental care and the challenges faced by services nationwide. She emphasised, “The Community Dental Service remains one of the most rewarding environments in which to care for children and train future specialists. I want to ensure its expertise and contribution are recognised, valued and strengthened.”
In her role as BSPD President, Dr Nichol will also advocate for improved access to paediatric dental care, reduced waiting times, and strengthened pathways into specialist services. A primary objective will be embedding oral health within broader neighbourhood health and prevention programmes to address health inequalities and enhance outcomes for children.
