Supporting return to dentistry: a national evaluation of the Retaining and Returning Advisory Service

INTRODUCTION: Workforce concerns in National Health Service (NHS) dentistry have led to Government initiatives to strengthen recruitment and retention. This study (commissioned by the Department of Health, England) explored the role, uptake and user reaction to the new Retaining and Returning Advisory Service in dentistry operating in all 12 postgraduate deaneries in 2002. METHOD: The primary focus of the evaluation study was the first year of the Retaining and Returning Advisory Service. All 12 Retaining and Returning Advisers (RRAs) were interviewed twice; all completed a record form for each one-to-one contact with users of the service (n = 217); and users' views were elicited through questionnaires (n = 82) and case study interviews (n = 10). RESULTS: RRAs' key activities in the first 12 months were to raise awareness of their role and provide one-to-one support for users (n = 217). Some also organised courses for dentists out of practice. Most one-to-one contacts were with female dentists on career breaks and registered on the Keeping in Touch Scheme (KITS). Support included: (i) planning continuing education; (ii) advice on job applications and requirements; and (iii) general careers guidance. Users' feedback was positive: confidence was increased and they valued targeted, hands-on courses. Postgraduate Dental Deans have integrated RRAs into their wider activities. CONCLUSION: The Retaining and Returning Advisory Service provided support to potentially vulnerable groups of dentists. The joint launch of the Retaining and Returning Advisory Service, the revised Keeping in Touch Scheme, and expanded availability of update courses created a comprehensive package of support.