Empowering change: my experience as a BVA representative

As a small animal vet, the focus for me began with issues such as the boom in the illegal puppy trade and the dramatic surge in ownership of brachycephalic breeds, animal welfare issues primarily, as was my raison d’etre for becoming a vet. As my need to make a difference in these areas grew, I started noticing the proactive work being done by BVA and was curious about getting involved.

I’ve now spent the past six years volunteering for BVA, and what a privilege it has been! I’ve witnessed and participated in discussions on a wide range of difficult and challenging issues affecting our profession. BVA priorities have been varied, from matters affecting the whole of #TeamVet through Good Veterinary Workplaces to animal health and welfare policy, ethics, and environmental and sustainability matters. There is something to whet the appetite of everyone in the profession on some level at BVA!

If you’re considering applying to be a regional rep, I can’t recommend the role enough. It’s given me the opportunity to meet people, contribute, and, most of all, feel like I’ve made a difference in my own small way. I hope to encourage anyone who may be interested to consider applying for the current vacancies, and I would urge anyone who has a view, whether moderate or passionate, to get in touch with your regional rep or local Branch Council.

Despite my time as Scotland’s Regional Representative coming to an end, I plan to stay engaged with BVA’s work. One way is by contributing to the Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey. BVA members can opt into regular surveys seeking member views on various issues. The more people who subscribe, the better that data will be. And with a growing membership base, it can only add weight to the veterinary voice when we seek to gain the attention of the powers in government and elsewhere. I firmly believe that as a small profession, we need a strong voice and representation, and I know BVA do that really well.