Registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) have been given the right to vote and to stand for BEVA council after a resolution was passed at the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) Congress in Liverpool earlier this month.
“The resolutions regarding nurses being able to vote and stand for BEVA council are a landmark change and very welcome from the viewpoint of Registered Veterinary Nurses,” said Marie Rippingale, chair of BEVA’s nurse committee.
“I am very proud to be a part of BEVA. This change will help to empower nurses to speak up and contribute, but more importantly, it will give them an opportunity to collaborate with other members of the equine veterinary profession to bring about change that is positive for all.”
BEVA has been consistently increasing support and developing the role of vet nurses over the past three years.
The association has introduced free equine vet nurse student membership and published guidelines detailing how vet nurses are allowed to work and showing the extent of the skillset and adaptability of the RVN in equine practice.
New award for vet nurses
Phillippa Pritchard
Last year, BEVA also introduced a new award entitled the ‘Vet Nurse Empowerment Award’ which recognises an individual who is actively championing the role of an equine nurse.
This year’s winner was Phillippa Pritchard from Liphook Equine Hospital. Phillippa received her award during a presentation ceremony which took place during the Congress.
“What better way to end my Presidential term than to be able to formally recognise the invaluable role of RVNs within the profession in this way,” said outgoing BEVA president Roger Smith.
“To enable vet nurses to vote and to stand for council can only be a positive step forward for all members.”
