Dietetics is an ever-evolving profession, and stepping into your first professional role can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. At the BDA, we’re here to ensure you feel confident, supported, and equipped with the tools you need to succeed as you embark on the first steps of your career.
Take a look at the extensive range of benefits graduate membership provides to help you transition seamlessly from a student to a practising dietitian.
Exclusive Graduate membership rate
As a graduate member, you’ll benefit from a 50% discounted fee compared to full BDA membership. This exclusive rate is available only to existing BDA student members and starts at just £167.90 for your first year in practice.
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Discounted access to BDA classroom and online courses
Continuing professional development (CPD) is vital for keeping your skills and knowledge up to date. As a graduate member, you’ll receive significant discounts on our wide range of classroom-based and online training courses. These CPD courses are led by highly experienced facilitators and cover a variety of topics, catering to different stages of your career.
Courses are available both online and at the BDA office in Birmingham, offering flexible learning options. They also provide valuable opportunities to network with other members, share best practices, and build professional connections.
Discounted access extends to BDA national and local events, including the Research Symposium and Education Forum, helping you enhance your expertise and stay connected with the dietetics community.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
One of the most important benefits of graduate membership is professional indemnity insurance, which is legally required to practice as a dietitian in the UK. This provides vital protection in case you are held personally liable for professional advice or decisions you make as part of your role.
While your employer may offer some level of coverage, it’s important to note that their policies often won’t protect you they are the ones bringing a claim or complaint against you. The BDA’s insurance therefore ensures you have independent support and protection when you need it most.
Trade Union representation
As a graduate member, you’ll gain representation through the BDA trade union, which offers crucial support for workplace issues.
Examples of support include assistance with employment contracts, disciplinary actions, workplace disputes, and ensuring your rights as an employee are upheld.
The trade union can also offer advice and guidance if you encounter challenges in your role, giving you peace of mind as you navigate the workplace.
Free legal representation at HCPC hearings
Should you ever face an HCPC investigation, your BDA graduate membership includes free legal representation. This benefit provides:
- Expert advice and support in preparing responses to HCPC inquiries.
- Representation at hearings, ensuring you have the best possible support during challenging times.
Specialist Groups and Local Branch access
Specialist Groups:
BDA Specialist Groups connect you with members who share your interests or work in the same professional areas. By joining one or more groups, you can:
- Access exclusive resources, expert advice, and online discussion networks.
- Attend CPD events, apply for awards and bursaries, and explore volunteer opportunities.
Local Branches:
The BDA’s 13 Local Branches represent members geographically across the UK. These branches offer:
- Local CPD and networking events to help you connect with peers in your area.
- A regional focus for BDA activity, ensuring your voice is heard at a local level.
Both Specialist Groups and Local Branches provide opportunities for professional growth, networking, and collaboration as you establish yourself in the dietetic community.
Free access to the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics (JHND)
Stay informed with the latest research and developments in dietetics through free access to the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics (JHND).
This international journal features cutting-edge research, practice guidelines, and discussion papers in dietetics and nutrition.
JHND is highly regarded by members and offers a valuable resource to support evidence-based practice as you build your career.
Free access to the Practice Evidence Nutrition Database (PEN®)
The Practice-based Evidence in Nutrition (PEN®) system is an invaluable tool for newly qualified dietitians.
It provides quick, online access to evidence-based information on over 200 topics, translating research into practical guidance for use in your practice.
PEN is free for all BDA members, but you must sign up separately using your membership number to access it.
Free copy of Dietetics Today delivered to your door
As a graduate member, you’ll receive a hard copy of Dietetics Today, the official magazine for BDA members, delivered straight to your door each month.
Stay updated with the latest news, views, and advancements in the dietetics profession. Explore insightful clinical articles, expert interviews, pilot studies, and more, all designed to keep you informed and inspired.
Dietetics Today is an essential resource for staying connected with your professional community and ensuring you’re always in the know.
If you’d prefer to access this digitally, please update your preferences via your MyBDA portal.
Online resources
Access essential professional and educational resources to support your evidence-based practice research, including: