LGBT+ History Month 2026: Fiona Bennett

To celebrate LGBT+ History Month, throughout February we are featuring Q&As with some key role models. Client Care Manager Fiona Bennett shares her advice for those working in the veterinary profession. 

What inspired your path into the veterinary profession? 

I fell into the veterinary world by chance. My Mum brought one of our cats into the practice for an annual vaccination and there was an ad up for a receptionist. I applied and jumped at accepting the offer when it came my way. I am passionate about helping people and trying to provide the best customer service, especially with the pets our clients are so passionate about. It’s a stark contrast to the envelope printing industry I’d been a part of for 8 years previously, people aren’t as passionate about a lovely C4 envelope.  

What has been the most challenging part of your career? 

Every day brings a fresh challenge in the vet world, doesn’t it? I’ve been a client care advisor for twelve years and the biggest challenge now is the volume and the number of forms of communication - it’s increased so drastically. It’s like a never-ending staircase.  

What has been the best part of your career so far? 

The best part of my career and what’s keeping me in it - the people! My colleagues are truly amazing folk who care about their calling. The bond created by getting through days when every case has been an emergency is special. The light relief when a day goes slightly more to plan is also appreciated.  

I also like the clients - I love going to Tesco or the theatre and bumping in to Bella’s mum or Milo’s dad (people really appreciate it when you remember their pet’s name even if you can’t remember theirs!). I feel very lucky to call many of my colleagues, and our clients, friends.  

What advice would you offer to someone experiencing difficulty with their sexuality or gender identity? 

Find your people - you will find strength and support in them. I struggled and felt isolated as a youngster in Dorset but connected with people from the gay community online, made friends, met with them at London Pride. I then made the move to London where I made more friends - my people. I had the time of my life in the big smoke and my sexuality didn’t feel like a struggle thereafter. My London friends are mostly in different places around the country now but we keep in touch and see each other when we can. I can’t imagine being the person I am today if it hadn’t been for them.