The BVA - the voice of the British veterinary profession
Role of the BVA
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is the national representative body for the veterinary profession with over 11,000 members. In promoting and supporting the interests of our members, and the animals under their care, the BVA is committed to developing and maintaining channels of communication not least with government, parliamentarians and the media.
The BVA is a not-for-profit organisation and a registered company, limited by guarantee.
The BVA is represented on the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, the Commonwealth Veterinary Association, the World Veterinary Association and the International Veterinary Officers Council and has an active Overseas Group.
The BVA provides a media and parliamentary information service, while members of the public with general veterinary related questions should see our FAQ page first.
The BVA also houses the BVA/Kennel Club Canine Health Schemes, the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation and the Veterinary Benevolent Fund.
The BVA is a member of the Pet Advisory Committee, the Pet Health Council, the Society of Companion Animal Studies and RUMA (Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture Alliance).
It is important to distinguish between the BVA and the governing body for the profession, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). The RCVS is a statutory body set up to administer the Veterinary Surgeons Act and as such is responsible for the registration, education and discipline of the profession. For more information on the RCVS visit www.rcvs.org.uk
BVA Structure
The BVA has three main areas of activity; Business Operations, Veterinary Policy and Publications. Each area has a specific role, but all work together to implement the strategic direction of the Board. The management decisions for the Association are the responsibility of the Secretary General, Henrietta Alderman. For more information on the structure visit BVA Structure
Divisions
The BVA has 21 specialist divisions representing the whole spectrum of species and specialties within veterinary science and 30 territorial divisions covering England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Subject to the rules contained within the BVA Articles of Association, each division is free to govern itself in such manner as it sees fit.
Download our leaflet - About the BVA
The BVA has recently published its Strategic Plan 2007-2010 download it now.
Annual report 2006/07
Read our latest annual report