The BDA was pleased to attend the recent session of the Health and Social Care Select Committee, where we contributed to discussions on the NHS 10-year workforce plan call for evidence.
This was the first time that BDA has been called for such an event. We comprehensively prepared to give feedback in all areas of dietetics, but focused heavily on community working, education and training, obesity and diabetic pathways, and much more.
You can watch the recording of the session here.
We weren't able to see the questions in advance. We were surprised on the broad nature of the topics and it is clear that we still have work to do in the wider public arena to promote understanding of AHPs and their value.
Our participation was valuable in several ways:
- Impactful messaging: We were able to clearly communicate the importance of dietitians in improving public health and specific condition outcomes, ensuring that the committee heard a strong, evidence-based case for the profession’s role.
- Connections made: The session provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with those working alongside policymakers and other health organisations, opening doors for future collaboration.
- Visibility of dietetics: By being present, the BDA reinforced the visibility of dietitians in national health debates, ensuring our voice is part of shaping policy.
Looking ahead:
Autumn Budget 2025
The UK Government’s Autumn Budget 2025 included a significant announcement on the development of Neighbourhood Health Centres. The government is committing 250 new centres by 2030 alongside £300million of funding for NHS technology to support staff and boost productivity. This investment has the potential to enhance local health provision and help shift care into the community.
The BDA will continue to advocate for dietitians to play a central role in this space. We see this as an important opportunity to embed dietetic expertise into community-based health services, ensuring that prevention and early intervention are at the heart of care.
Next steps
The BDA will build on this engagement by:
- Monitoring and analysing the NHS 10 year workforce plan once released.
- Monitoring the implementation of Neighbourhood Health Centres.
- Advocating to ensure dietetic services are included in commissioning and policy frameworks.
- Continuing to provide evidence to parliamentary committees and government consultations.
Through these actions, the BDA remains committed to ensuring that dietitians are recognised as essential to the UK’s health and social care system.
