BVA sets out its vision for a 'future-proof' workforce
Increasing the number of veterinary students alone won’t provide a holistic, long-term approach to making sure we have enough vets in the workforce, the BVA has said in a new position statement.
Launched on Monday (23 September), the position recognises the professional landscape is ‘in flux’ and sets out 50 recommendations to build on and support the UK’s leading reputation for veterinary education.
BVA President, Daniella Dos Santos said: “The UK veterinary education system is rightly recognised as one of the best in the world. We recognise that workforce issues can be addressed, in part with veterinary undergraduate education policy, however, an increase in the number of students into the system should not be viewed as a panacea for all workforce issues.
"
The listed recommendations span the different milestones of veterinary education. They include thinking about how careers advice is delivered, to calling for more funding and making sure students are equipped with core clinical and non-clinical skills upon graduation.
The BVA says that it is important for it and the profession to work collaboratively with underrepresented and minority groups to help facilitate inclusivity and equality in both educational settings and workplaces.
It also suggests the profession should do more to highlight the range of existing widening participation schemes provide by UK veterinary Schools and outlined in the Veterinary Schools Council admissions guide.
Dr Dos Santos continued: “We should look at the bigger picture and address issues at multiple points in the journey to becoming part of the veterinary workforce, including those that present after graduation.
"From widening participation schemes, communication of the diverse range of veterinary careers to the implementation of post-study work visas, there are many ways in which BVA and other stakeholders can help maintain a gold standard whilst making sure that we create a workforce that is capable, resilient, and inclusive.”
Image (C) BVA.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
