About Lynn Hickey
Hygiene Therapist / GDC Reg No:5023
Originally from Scotland, I qualified as a Dental Hygienist in 1995. I moved to Blackburn in 1997 and have been working part-time at Bank View Smile Studio since 2004.
I particularly value being part of the practice because of its forward-thinking clinical approach, grounded on a strong periodontal foundation and strong commitment to ongoing training and teamwork.
Outside of work, I enjoy going on holiday and taking time to relax.
Kathy Smith
Practice Manager
I have been a valued member of the practice for over 30 years, having started part-time as a trainee dental nurse and receptionist. I went on to gain a Diploma in Practice Management in 2003 after returning to further education at Blackburn College.
I play a key role in ensuring the practice runs smoothly and take great pride in supporting my colleagues and building strong relationships with patients. I am known for being approachable, organised, and supportive.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, including my three children and four grandchildren. I also love walking, especially in the Lake District.
About Hayley Bolton
Finance Administrator / GDC Reg No:148260
I am the Finance Administrator at the practice, with 21 years of service. During this time, I have also undertaken roles as a receptionist and a nurse working alongside Khalid for almost 10 years, which has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the practice and its operations.
I particularly value my work within the financial department and welcome the ongoing challenges it presents. I am a friendly, conscientious, and dependable individual, committed to maintaining high standards in all aspects of my role.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and four grandchildren, who are an important part of my life.
Sarah Watson
I have 23 years of experience in dentistry, starting my training at Antley Villa Dental Practice with Khalid and Thomas. I’ve worked in many practices since but spent the last five years at Bank View Smile Studios, bringing extensive expertise in patient care and clinical support. I enjoy guiding patients through their treatment journey, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and proud of their smile.
I am friendly, organised, and supportive, and I am proud to be an integral part of the team.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active with mountain walking, running, cycling, and swimming.
Bushra Ali Shah
With more than 20 years of full-time experience in dentistry, I bring extensive knowledge, calmness, professionalism, and a wealth of experience to the team. I proudly work in Surgery 1 as Khalid’s Dental Nurse and take on the role of Audit Manager when Khalid is on non-clinical duties.
I am fully qualified in dental radiography and hold additional certifications in intraoral scanning and impression taking. I take pride in my dedication, competence, enthusiastic approach, and I play an important role in maintaining high standards of patient care and quality clinical outcomes within the practice.
One of the aspects of dentistry I enjoy most is being an integral part of complex treatments that lead to life-changing smile makeovers.
Outside of dentistry, I enjoy sketching, tackling decorating and DIY projects, and chasing beautiful sunsets—a small reminder to pause and appreciate the special moments life has to offer.
Sofia Iqbal
I’m a Dental Nurse with over 10 years of experience, having also worked as a Practice Manager and Treatment Coordinator, with experience in orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and implantology. I’m also skilled in intraoral scanning and impression taking.
I love helping patients regain their confidence—and I like to think I do it with a smile (and a few laughs along the way). I’m known as the loud, funnier character of the practice, and some even call me the princess of the practice: keeping things moving, keeping everyone on their toes, and making sure there’s never a dull moment in the clinic.
Outside work, you’ll usually find me shopping, enjoying a meal somewhere tasty, going on holiday, or cruising down country roads pretending I’m in a music video.
Irfa Shah
I began my career in dental nursing in 2017 and have since developed experience in both general and cosmetic dentistry. In May 2024, I joined the team at Bank View Smile Studios, where I work alongside Thomas, assisting with a range of treatments and contributing to smile transformations that enhance patients’ confidence, an aspect of my role that I find particularly rewarding.
I am committed to maintaining a high standard of efficiency, organisation, and reliability in all areas of my work.
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy walking, travelling to new destinations, dining out, and spending time with family and friends.
Naeema Patel
I have been part of the practice for four years, working as both a Dental Nurse and Receptionist. With previous experience as an Office Manager, Personal Assistant, Front of House, Accounts Clerk, and Orthodontic Nurse, I bring strong organisational skills and a wealth of patient care experience to the team.
My favourite part of the role is carrying out and seeing the results of different procedures and witnessing the positive changes in patients’ confidence. I enjoy building rapport with patients and helping them feel relaxed and welcome when they visit the practice. I would describe myself at work as professional, approachable, and organised.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, scenic walks with my husband Adam and our daughter, as well as shopping, dining out, and travelling.
Julie Ibrahim
I have lived in Blackburn all my life and have over 42 years of experience in dental practices. I have worked at Bank View Smile Studios for over 30 years and enjoy working alongside a fantastic, skilled team.
While I am GDC-registered and work in surgery with Lynn the hygienist, I enjoy meeting patients, and being part of their journey. Outside work, I love family time with my daughters and grandchildren and supporting local charities.