Dentists, can you keep Shetland smiling?

Shetland is an incredible place to be a dentist – providing the perfect opportunity for career development while making a real difference to the community.

That is the view of Antony Visocchi, NHS Shetland’s Director of Dentistry, speaking as the service begins recruiting two new dentists to join the team.

Antony believes it is the ideal time to make the move as Shetland, like elsewhere, emerges from the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In work terms, there is much to be done as services return to normal, presenting a chance to make a genuine difference. And out of work, there is a sense of freedom in the islands that make working and living in Shetland an exciting opportunity.

“It is a great chance to be part of a community and be part of something bigger than just a dental service.

“Working in Shetland gives you the opportunity to develop your skills in a small and well-supported team, rather than being a small part of a larger service. There are advantages to working somewhere like Shetland, where you’re able to take stock of your own career and future.

“There are also opportunities to experience and become involved in many different of the aspects of the service, which is more feasible when part of a smaller team. As a service, we are committed to supporting dentists to develop their own interest to keep enhanced practitioner services on the islands.”

Part of the attraction is what Antony calls “the Shetland way” – an overriding sense that health professionals will deliver what is needed to improve services and provide for their own community.

"People just have a ‘can-do’ attitude and really hold ownership of the role as well as their own standing within the community. It’s about being part of something bigger and really being part of the community.

“This is a unique attribute and was obvious when I first came to Shetland. This feeling has certainly stayed with me.”

Of course, it’s not all about work. There aren’t many places as spectacular Shetland in which to escape the pressures of the “nine to five”.

There is a distinct feeling that the work-life balance matters in the islands – and with incredible coastal scenery, well-equipped gyms and leisure centres, a deep sporting culture, thriving music scene and much more, there is something for everybody to enjoy in their free time.

You may see killer whales or otters in your lunch break, or kayak in awesome sea caves or walk among world-class archaeology in your spare time. You don’t get that everywhere.

What’s more with excellent transport links, and impressive digital services you feel “very connected”, says Antony.

“There is so much going on and there are so many facilities you feel very connected to the community both in Shetland and out with the islands. Especially with modern communications, in that respect, it’s no different to anywhere else.”

If you’re interested in becoming a dentist in Shetland, contact Antony Visocchi – Phone: +44 (0)1595 743043; Email: antony.visocchi@nhs.scot

To search more public sector jobs in Shetland, check our current vacancies page.