In this blog, BVNA Council Member Helen Stewart highlights why it is so crucial that veterinary nurses provide a strong response to the UK Government and Defra consultation on Veterinary Surgeons Act Reform, accepting responses until 25th March 2026.

Dear fellow veterinary professionals,

I’d like to take a minute to address you all regarding the important matter of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, and the UK Government consultation which is currently open on its reform.

As a member of BVNA Council, I have a vested interest in the future of the veterinary nursing profession. I strongly believe that reform of this Act will not only impact veterinary nurses, but veterinary teams collectively for the better.

Many organisations, including BVNA, have been calling for brand new legislation to replace the existing Act, which is significantly outdated. BVNA representatives have worked tirelessly to represent veterinary nurses throughout the Defra-led process so far, and are determined that legislation must properly recognise the skilled and professional workforce that veterinary nurses are today. But now it is YOUR turn.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to shape the future of the veterinary industry. I would like to ask everyone to take part in this. It can take up to four hours to complete, however I can assure you it is not as tedious as it sounds. I appreciate this is a lot of time out of your busy lives to spare, but it doesn’t have to be completed all in one go. You can save it and come back when you have time providing it is complete by the deadline of 25th March.

Reform is a long process, and I know many of you may be of the opinion that nothing will ever change. I can’t stress enough how hard BVNA are trying to rectify this. The fact that we have entered the consultation stage is a huge step forward and a strong response means we have a better chance of securing a positive future for our profession.

Obviously, my main concern is making sure veterinary nurses are heard. I would ask all wonderful RVNs, SVNs and all our veterinary colleagues to use your voice, get involved and encourage your veterinary contacts to get involved too.

Here’s to a brighter future for veterinary nurses.

The Defra consultation is available to access directly here; https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/.

Find out more about how BVNA is ensuring your voice is heard in VSA reform; https://bvna.org.uk/project/veterinary-surgeons-act-reform/