Nikki Ruedisueli , RVN | nicola @ bvna . co . uk

VNJ Editor , Head of Learning and Development at BVNA

As you know , BVNA represents the veterinary nursing profession in specific working groups , but what does that mean and how does it affect you ?

The BVNA feels it ’ s important for veterinary nurses to have a voice at pivotal meetings , to ensure our role is considered in forthcoming changes or campaigns within the profession . This has proven worthwhile on many occasions , such as when meetings attended by BVNA Council members were found to be focused solely on veterinary surgeons . The Council members highlighted the impact of the issues being discussed on veterinary nursing and made suggestions that incorporated the whole vet-led team .

Here ’ s an overview of the groups and campaigns we ’ re involved with to make a difference on your behalf . We ’ ll be looking at these , and others , in more detail in future issues .

RCVS Advanced Practitioner Status Group evaluates how Advanced Practitioner status in veterinary nursing can be achieved .

VetLife is a free service from an independent organisation which provides a 24-hour confidential helpline and support for veterinary professionals .

Animal Behaviour and Training Council ( ABTC ) is the regulatory body that represents animal trainers , training instructors and animal-behaviour therapists .

VN Futures looks at the future of veterinary nursing , in order to create a more diverse and sustainable workforce , and a structured , rewarding career for veterinary nurses .

VN Futures Diversity , Inclusion and Widening Participation Group ( DIWP ) actively addresses diversity and inclusivity in veterinary nursing .

RCVS Diversity and Inclusion Group addresses diversity and inclusivity , and mainly consists of veterinary surgeons with BVNA input relating to veterinary nurses .

The Links Group raises awareness of the link between the abuse of people and animals , through support , training and inter-agency working .

RCVS Mind Matters Initiative ( MMI ) aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of veterinary teams , including students , nurses , surgeons and practice managers .

Vet Team in a Box is a programme that engages with Year 9 children ( through the school curriculum ) and encourages them to join the veterinary profession .

British Veterinary Association ( BVA ) is the representative body of veterinary surgeons in the UK . Its charity , Animal Welfare Foundation , uses veterinary knowledge to improve animal welfare through science , education and debate .

Vet Sustain champions sustainability in veterinary practice . BVNA represents veterinary nurses on the Greener Veterinary Practice working group , which is part of Vet Sustain .

Scottish Animal Health and Antimicrobial Resistance ( SAHAMR ) helps stakeholders develop and deliver a coordinated , quality-driven approach that combines human health , farm and companion animals , wildlife , the environment , food and water .

RCVS Practice Standards Scheme working group ( PSSwg ) is a voluntary initiative which promotes and maintains high standards of veterinary care . RVNs have recently been authorised to become PSS inspectors .

If you ’ re interested in finding out more or have a question for a Council member , contact BVNA Council : council @ bvna . co . uk

The annual BVNA Council elections will be held in June ; look out for an email about this . The successful candidates will be announced after May ’ s Council meeting . You ’ ll be able to access their manifestos on our website and vote for your favourite from 1 June 2022 .

Scan the QR code to access the digital version of VNJ with hyperlinked websites and references ( where available ).

VOL 37 • May 2022

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