Nominations open for BVA Wellbeing Awards 2025

Supported by ManyPets, the BVA Wellbeing Awards recognise veterinary workplaces which have embraced the ethos of BVA’s Good Veterinary Workplaces initiative: inclusive workplaces with positive cultures where staff feel valued, empowered, rewarded, and where health and wellbeing are prioritised.  

Vet teams are invited to nominate their workplaces for the awards detailing the ways in which the team’s wellbeing has been supported. Entrants must show: 

• A positive workplace culture where mental and physical wellbeing is prioritised, and workplace stress is proactively managed; 
• Good communication between the team ensuring all staff members are heard and valued; 
• Clear processes in place for making suggestions and enabling change; and 
• Flexible working is supported, and regular breaks encouraged. 

British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President and Awards judge Rob Williams said: “Work is such a big part of our lives so being able to express yourself, feel supported and be happy while doing your job is so important. It’s not just vital for individuals: happy, healthy workplaces retain their talent, deliver client and animal-focused services, and help build sustainable businesses. The BVA Wellbeing Awards celebrate those workplaces who work consistently to care for their teams. It’s time to shine a light on them.”  

It is strongly encouraged that nominations are a team effort, so everyone in the team has the opportunity to share their views and experiences. Photos showcasing team culture, demonstrating initiatives to aid staff wellbeing or moments of positivity are required and creativity in the submission is encouraged. 

Last year’s winners showcased the ways they were making a difference to their employees’ wellbeing. 

Winner of the Small/Medium Practice category (up to 25 employees), was Axe Valley Large Animal Vets, Cheddar in Somerset, who impressed the judges with its genuine effort to alleviate stress and encourage a friendly and happy atmosphere. Ensuring good mental health is a top priority, with a nominated mental health ambassador and team mental health training. Staff are involved with suggesting and implementing change. Personal lives are respected and there are several office dogs! 

Old Golf House Vets, Thetford, Norfolk was the winner of the Large Practice category (over 25 employees). Old Golf Vets stood out for its dedication to achieving and maintaining a positive culture in the workplace. The practice prioritises the individual needs of its staff members, with flexible working available as well as opportunities to share knowledge, talk about their interests and develop their skillset. Staff are encouraged to speak up and get involved with implementing change and achievements are celebrated. Breaks, social activities and nominating colleagues for “random awards of greatness” are strongly encouraged and celebrated on the team’s “pawsitivity board”. 

The Non-clinical Workplace category was won by The University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) - School of Veterinary Medicine, Lancashire, for its focus on wellbeing, dedication to providing a “psychologically safe” culture and commitment to caring for colleague mental health. Good wellbeing is a priority at the school, which set up Wellbeing Wednesdays - afternoons with no teaching – as protected times for colleagues to engage in fun and educational activities to support their wellbeing. Colleagues are encouraged to share ideas, photos and good news as well organise social events within and outside the workplace.   

Dr. Kirsten Ronngren, DVM MRCVS, Consulting Veterinarian and Veterinary Engagement Manager at ManyPets, said: “ManyPets is delighted to be a part of this year's BVA Wellbeing Awards. Over the last year, we’ve made big improvements to how we do things, and supporting veterinary teams has been a priority. We believe in the power of positivity, growth, and intentional leadership in practice, and we’re looking forward to recognising that among our colleagues over the coming months.” 

The BVA Wellbeing Awards are an evolution of the Vet Wellbeing Awards, which were originally founded by SPVS and run in partnership with RCVS Mind Matters Initiative. The BVA Wellbeing Awards will continue to recognise veterinary workplaces that go above and beyond to support staff wellbeing, based on BVA’s Good Veterinary Workplaces Voluntary Code.  

The awards are open to the entire veterinary profession and there is no requirement to be a BVA member. The winner will be announced on Thursday 16 October 2025 at the BVA Awards, held at BVA’s Headquarters in Mansfield Street, London.  

Nominations close on Monday 11 August 2025. To nominate a veterinary workplace, and for more details on the entry criteria, plus full terms and conditions, visit: www.bva.co.uk/wellbeing-awards