The London Young Vet Network is reawakened

BVA and the Veterinary Defence Society (the VDS) support Young Vet Network (YVN) groups around the UK. The groups are run independently by volunteers and provide young vets with the opportunity to meet up, discuss the pressures and the pleasures of the job, and enjoy social and CPD events together.

The reawakening of the London YVN has set itself a high bar for future events. The London YVN, after several months of deliberation, finally set its foot on the London scene, blessed with the generosity of Paul Freeman of the University of Cambridge to provide our inaugural lecture. 

The evening started with a welcome drink and some delicious pizza made in the stable yard kitchen of the Northcote pub (kindly sponsored by the BVA). There was a promising turn out of fifteen attendees from various parts of London and at different levels of their career. Fortunately, there was no need for ice-breakers. 

Lectures and learning

The evening moved swiftly into an entertaining lecture from Paul Freeman entitled ‘’I’ve done the neuro exam… now what?!’’. With the intimate space and the modest crowd, it was a fantastic opportunity to really question the topic and take home some key learning points. Most importantly this included the indications for immediate referral (assuring us the rest can wait a little bit), a reminder that a calm approach is the best approach and the best cases to give a chance ‘in house’ if referral is not an option. With the University of Cambridge neurology department taking on a new resident this year, Paul and his team presented themselves as a viable alternative for our North East London members. 

What followed was what we had hoped to achieve with the YVN, an easy social evening to help dilute our sometimes challenging days. The majority of attendees stayed on until after final orders. With everyone signed up for the next one, the London YVN is sure to keep going. 

The London YVN is planning for our next event in June. Please follow the London YVN on Facebook as this is the most convenient method to share our news and event . Alternatively you can email [email protected] for more information.

Not in London? See our full list of YVN groups across the UK, and all YVN events.