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BVNA is among the organisations advocating for new legislation, and considerable advancements have been made this year. BVNA is collaborating with the UK government as part of a stakeholder group established by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs( Defra). BVNA represents veterinary nursing within this working group, which also includes the British Veterinary Association( BVA), Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons( RCVS), Veterinary Schools Council( VSC) and government departments.

This year, the group has carefully considered recommendations to ensure that new legislation addresses the needs of both the profession and the public, now and in the future. These recommendations will soon form the basis of a public consultation. The BVNA Council, staff and dedicated working groups are continuing to invest significant time and resources into this endeavour, and remain committed to advocating for veterinary nurses.

Protect the Title

Some of the key professional concerns raised by BVNA members revolve around the lack of protection for the title‘ veterinary nurse’, and the underutilisation of the RVN skill set. BVNA is listening to these concerns and is working persistently for improvement.

Long-overdue new legislation is essential to protect the‘ veterinary nurse’ title. This legislation would need to ensure that only individuals who are trained, qualified and regulated may identify as veterinary nurses. BVNA has campaigned extensively on this issue and secured support from both RCVS and BVA in this initiative.

How to get involved

During the consultation process, Defra will seek engagement from the veterinary nursing profession. Your input is crucial and will be considered; this is an opportunity to influence the future of the profession.

The veterinary policy team at Defra will attend the BVNA Congress 2025 to hear directly from RVNs. On Friday 10 October, from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm, Defra will host an interactive discussion session at Congress, aimed at gathering views and concerns regarding the legislation. BVNA encourages as many delegates as possible to attend and contribute, gain insights into the legislative process and contemplate the future of veterinary nursing.

This could be a unique opportunity to enact a substantial change for your profession, and BVNA hopes for your active engagement and support.

Once there is a clearer indication of the timescale for the public consultation on the recommendations for new legislation, BVNA will also be calling on members to contribute to this consultation and provide your feedback. A clear and strong voice from the veterinary nursing profession is essential to achieve the outcomes needed from new legislation. Your voice matters.

Volume 40( 5) • October 2025

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