Dental professionals

Benefits of membership

Members of the DDU receive a comprehensive indemnity package, which we believe is second to none. They also have access to a whole range of advice and assistance. Here are just a few reasons to apply to join the DDU.

Professional indemnity insurance policy

Our members receive a professional indemnity insurance policy* to cover clinical negligence claims. This is a contractual agreement that will always provide assistance within the terms of the policy. Other dental defence organisations only provide indemnity on a discretionary basis, meaning there is no legal contract, therefore no guarantee of assistance.

Discretionary benefits

In addition to the insurance policy that DDU members receive, our members continue to have access to discretionary benefits if necessary.

The DDU is the only dental defence organisation to provide this unique combination of insurance and discretion.

24-hour advisory helpline

Our team of dento-legal experts are contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year.

Support and representation

We can help respond to complaints, and provide support and representation at GDC and other disciplinary investigations. We can also assist in NHS Business Services Authority enquiries, Dental Complaints Service investigations, and coroners' inquiries including formulating responses and representation in a coroner's court.

Expert claims handling

When dealing with a claim we will not settle for the sake of financial expediency. We will also not ask you to sign a form handing over decision-making. You will be consulted at all major milestones of a claim, and we will not settle without your expressed consent.

Good Samaritan acts

We provide you with free professional indemnity for Good Samaritan acts anywhere in the world.

24-hour press office

If the press take an interest in a complaint or claim that affects our members, our 24-hour press office can provide expert advice on dealing with the media. Our assistance can range from advise on what to say, to issuing statements and speaking to the media on a member's behalf.

Dento-legal publications

Members have access to a range of free advisory publications covering key subjects such as confidentiality and complaints as well as our regular DDU journal and comprehensive website.

Member discounts

We have negotiated a range of generous discounts with leading publishers. Members also get reduced enrolment fees on DDU CPD courses.

Download our Member Guide which provides a summary of the benefits of membership.

Download our DCP Member Guide which provides a summary of the benefits of membership for DCP members.

* Subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.