Oral health charity appoints next head of policy and advocacy

Rachael England has been appointed as the new head of policy and advocacy for the Oral Health Foundation.

She brings extensive experience in public health, advocacy, and strategic communications, having spent the last six years at FDI World Dental Federation in Geneva.

In her previous role she led global campaigns, developed national policies on sugar reduction, and worked with governments, NGOs, and international health organisations to influence policy and drive forward action on oral health.

Her career has spanned roles in research, clinical practice, and management, alongside founding and leading community health projects such as Maasai Molar, a charity integrating oral health into primary healthcare in Kenya.

And she is a fellow of the College of General Dentistry and holds a Doctorate in Public Health, as well as a Master’s in Public Health.

She said, “I am honoured to be joining the Oral Health Foundation.

“The organisation has a proud history of championing better oral health and I look forward to building on this legacy by developing evidence-based policy and forging partnerships that can deliver meaningful, long-term change.”

In her new role, she will shape the Oral Health Foundation’s policy positions, lead advocacy strategies, and work with stakeholders across government, healthcare, and industry to reduce oral health inequalities.

Policy and advocacy will be one of the charity’s key areas of work in its new ‘Strategy to 2030’.

England will also play a central role in advancing the charity’s campaigns, including National Smile Month and Mouth Cancer Action Month.

Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Rachael on board.

“Her global experience, expertise in advocacy, and proven ability to influence public health agendas will be invaluable as we continue our work to improve oral health and reduce inequalities.”