The Falkland Islands Government's Health & Social Services Department is seeking a dedicated and skilled Dental Therapist to join our established team. Based at the King Edward Memorial Hospital in Stanley, our team delivers a comprehensive range of dental and oral health services, including emergency care. Our facility boasts three well-equipped surgeries and a small technical area, adhering to UK standards of care while tailoring our practices to meet the unique needs of our local community.

The Role

This position presents an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and dedicated Dental Therapist to join our team and contribute significantly to the oral health of the Falkland Islands community. As part of our comprehensive dental service, you will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality dental care, focusing on both preventative and restorative treatments. Your work will be instrumental in enhancing and promoting the overall oral health standards within the islands.

As almost all dental care is provided free of charge on the Falkland Islands, with the exception of laboratory-constructed prostheses, you have the freedom to provide the best possible care to your patients without cost being a barrier.

The role is uniquely divided, with approximately 50% of your time dedicated to dental hygiene activities and the remaining 50% focused on treatments within the scope of practice for dental therapists as defined by the General Dental Council (GDC). Specific duties will include, but are not limited to:

Conducting thorough dental examinations and assessments. Taking and interpreting radiographs to diagnose and plan treatments effectively. Performing periodontal treatments to prevent and manage gum disease. Providing direct restorative treatments, including fillings and sealants. Extracting deciduous (baby) teeth safely and effectively. Applying fluoride treatments and other preventive measures. In addition to your clinical responsibilities, you will be expected to:

Participate actively in the development and maintenance of the Falkland Islands' Oral Health Strategy, ensuring it meets the unique needs of our population. Collaborate with other dental professionals and healthcare providers to deliver integrated care and share best practices. Plan and implement Dental Health Education programs aimed at improving community awareness and promoting good oral hygiene practices. Engage with local schools, community groups, and public health initiatives to extend the reach and impact of our dental health services. Your role will also involve continuous professional development, ensuring that your skills and knowledge remain current with the latest advancements in dental therapy. We are committed to providing you with opportunities for further training and professional growth.

This is a highly rewarding position that not only offers the chance to practice a wide range of dental hygiene and therapy activities  but also to make a meaningful impact on the oral health and well-being of the Falkland Islands community. If you are passionate about dental health and looking for a unique and fulfilling professional experience, we encourage you to apply

The Person

Holds a degree in a relevant subject such as a Dental Therapy & Hygiene BSc, with a minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience in a similar role, ideally in a UK practice providing NHS care provision or equivalent.

• Registered with the UK General Dental Council or recognised international equivalent which must be maintained for the duration of the appointment.
• Knowledge of professional dental therapy and hygiene instruments and methods.
• Able to demonstrate the communication skills necessary to explain treatments to patients in a calm and reassuring manner.
• Has the ability to work and communicate effectively as part of a team in a busy general practice.

The Package

• Up to 4 Years Fixed Term Contract
• Salary Range £40,668 to £46,667; starting salaries will be dependent upon experience.
• Eligibility for a 25% Gratuity, paid upon successful completion of the contract.
• A work week of 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday
• 30 Days Annual Leave, plus government and public holidays (totalling 41 days leave).
• Relocation Allowance to help with moving costs.
• Flights Package for you and your dependants
• Government Housing for rent and a starter pack to help you get settled in.
• A stimulating and supportive setting to work in and a unique and beautiful setting to live in. How to Apply

Interested candidates can download the job description and further information from our online vacancy page.

To apply, please complete our online application form from our vacancy page www.jobs.gov.fk, by clicking on 'Apply Now' and completing the form. 

Applications close Friday 11^th October 2024

Falkland Islands Government (FIG)

The Falkland Islands is a British Overseas Territory, with full internal self-government.

As the largest employer in the Falkland Islands, we offer many unique and fulfilling job opportunities, across the full spectrum of public services. Our responsibilities include those typically managed by central government – taxation, legislation and policy, as well as those usually managed on a local level such as town planning, health and social services, and education. FIG also provides services specific to the needs of the Falkland Islands, such as fisheries research, power generation and the Government Air Service, FIGAS.

For more information about working for Falkland Islands Government, take a look at our Government site https://www.fig.gov.fk/

The Falkland Islands

Set in the South Atlantic Ocean, around 400 miles east of South America and 8000 miles south-west of the UK, the Falkland Islands are a small, thriving community with a British way of life, benefiting from good local services, a varied social calendar and an absence of traffic jams!

The Falkland Islands’ stunning natural environment provides an unspoiled landscape and amazing wildlife to observe and explore, including penguins, whales and dolphins, all seen from the shore.

For those with a sense of adventure, it provides opportunities which are hard to match anywhere else in the world.