The Dr Gerald Leatherman Award

The late Dr Gerald Leatherman played a very important part in promoting the role of the dental hygienist. He was one of the pioneers of preventive dentistry in the UK and dedicated his professional life to raising the profile of both the dental hygienist and dental health promotion. He was actively involved with the British Dental Hygienists' Association (now known as BSDHT) from the start. Following his retirement from the office of President of the BDHA in 1957 he was appointed Honorary Vice President until his death in 1991.

It was during his early professional years, when he was working in the United States that he first experienced the 'new profession' of the dental hygienist and oral health clinics. Being the great visionary he was, Dr Leatherman could see the potential benefits of such a group of auxiliaries. He brought his ideas back to the UK and began the crusade with like-minded colleagues which led to the recognition of the dental hygienist as an integral member of the dental team.

In order to recognise the work and support of Dr Leatherman, the 'Dr Gerald Leatherman Award' was established to perpetuate and honour the name of this great man. This prestigious award is given to any individual, not necessarily a dental hygienist, who has shown consistent support to the profession of dental hygiene or to the BSDHT, for example by acting as a respected ambassador or by working actively at a local level.

The presentation is in the form of a lapel pin bearing the words: 'Dr Leatherman's Award' and a certificate to commemorate the date that the Award was made.

Recipients of the Award

1994	Jean Bailey
1995	Rosemarie Khan
1996	Freda Rimini
1997	Sue Lloyd
2000	Ann Craddock
2001	Christine Jones
2007	Barbara Young
2009	Maggie Jackson