Having qualified as a dentist in my home country some years ago, I later found myself becoming a refugee in the UK and needing to requalify in order to practise in my adopted country. I successfully passed the first stage of this process, but then had to care for my mother, who sadly passed away.

I was working as a quality analyst, a role completely unrelated to dentistry. Despite this, I was desperate to return to the profession I had worked so hard to become part of. The GDC website advised that the BDA Benevolent Fund may be able to help with funding for ORE Part 2, and that the GDC also offered priority places for refugee dentists.

Applying to the BDA Benevolent Fund was very straightforward. The application form was clear, and the required paperwork was easy to collate. Communication was quick and clear throughout, and a decision on my application was made promptly. Initially, I was awarded funding towards a training course I needed to complete before applying for my exam place. I then reapplied when the ORE Part 2 booking window opened, and the Benevolent Fund paid the exam fee directly to the GDC, which relieved a huge amount of stress and helped secure my place.

I am extremely grateful for the support I received, not only financially but also through the mental health and wellbeing advice offered free by the charity. This support has enabled me to continue pursuing my dream of practising as a dentist in the UK.

I truly could not have done this without the kindness and support of the BDA Benevolent Fund. Thank you.