Calling all SVNs – This year is the 20th anniversary of Student Volunteering Week. Between the 8th and the 14th of February, we celebrate the social and support aspect of online student communities and we have a look at what you can do within the Veterinary Nursing profession, not just for the week but for the rest of the year too!

Student Volunteering Week aims to “celebrate the impact of student volunteers and encourage students to engage in civic life” – and as SVNs that could mean improving standards within the industry and supporting others who are studying. Volunteering can be as easy as giving up just a few minutes of your day to engage on online student forums through your course provider. There will always be someone who has questions about the next part of their studies, or they may need reassurance on what they have done already, as well as sharing different NPL task techniques or resources online.

Student Hubs, one of biggest UK student support organisations says “social action creates positive change”, so let’s look into what SVNs can do in the veterinary profession. Did you know that here at the BVNA, we have student volunteers on our council?

BVNA Council Election and Student Members

The BVNA is the only organisation representing veterinary nurses in the UK and it has been running for 55 years, and has over 6500 members.

The BVNA council is made up of 14 full members, and 3 student members – and they’re all volunteers! As a council member, you are part of the formal decision making body of the BVNA which works with other key regulating bodies like the RCVS and British Veterinary Association, about the perspective of veterinary nurses on legislation, good practice and the challenges and opportunities within our industry.

Over the last few years, our student council members have said they’ve joined the BVNA council so they can make a positive difference to the veterinary profession. The election nominations start from mid-February so be sure to look out for the notices and find out more.

Other SVN Volunteering Opportunities

There are so many ways as SVNs you can share your passion, use your knowledge and skill before qualifying. When social restrictions start to relax, as SVNs you can help the public look after their pets and the local wildlife, or even look into volunteering abroad! Through volunteering you can learn new skills, connect with others in the industry, find support networks, give back to the community and also learn new ways to communicate professionally.