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Being the first workplace to achieve Gold accreditation through Great Workplaces by BVA has become an important part of how Derbyshire-based Swadlincote Vets retains staff and most importantly attracts new talent.

The management team at Swadlincote Vets has always prioritised creating a supportive and thriving workplace. After eight years leading the practice, Clinical Director Ingrid Stevenson wanted to identify practical steps they could take to strengthen the team and support staff retention. The Great Workplaces by BVA accreditation scheme gave her that opportunity, and the process led them to achieve Gold.

Why they chose Great Workplaces

While Ingrid felt confident that the overall culture at their workplace was good, she was keen to better understand her team’s experience and identify areas for improvement. She recognised that people are often more open with third parties, and welcomed the chance for an objective review of her leadership and the practice culture. She was prepared for both positive and critical feedback.

"The whole point was to hear what they wanted changed, not just the good stuff. I wanted someone to put a critical eye on everything. This helped me pinpoint exactly where attention was needed."

Solution-focused improvement plan

The Great Workplaces framework provided highly-tailored independent feedback, highlighting areas to focus on, including the need for regular one-to-ones and more soft skills training. Ingrid acted quickly, introducing structured one-to-one meetings with team members and investing in tools to help develop communication and soft skills across the practice. She also reinforced communication and accountability within the team, making sure that everyone felt heard and supported in their roles.

Supporting recruitment and retention

By celebrating the team's success and making meaningful changes, Ingrid has strengthened engagement and reinforced a culture of continuous improvement. The prestigious Gold accreditation is now central to how Swadlincote Vets attracts new talent. Their award is proudly displayed in the waiting room and showcased on their website alongside their clinical achievements. Ingird believes that it clearly demonstrates the practice’s commitment to a positive work culture, making it more appealing to new hires.

"We’re proud to show potential hires that we have Gold accreditation. It tells them this is a practice where the team is valued. It’s not just about clinical excellence – it’s about people too."

Advice to other practices

Ingrid found Great Workplaces accreditation process to be a practical and realistic approach to improving workplace culture. She didn’t expect to secure Gold but now actively encourages others to take part.

"It’s not about being perfect. It’s about doing your best for your team and making the workplace as good as it can be. Great Workplaces helped us see what we were doing right and where we could improve, and that’s invaluable."

"I didn’t expect to secure Gold at all. But getting it was really reassuring – it showed we’re doing the right things for our team! When I told them we’d got Gold, they were delighted. Veterinary practice can be stressful, but this really lifted the mood."

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