Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

First ever vet nurse appointed BSAVA regional chair and council representative
Emma Gerrard (pictured) is a registered animal medicines advisor for companion and farm animals.

Emma Gerrard will represent the views of members in the Cymru/Wales region

The BSAVA has announced that, for the first time ever, a veterinary nurse has been appointed chair of a BSAVA Regional Committee and a council representative.

Emma Gerrard will take over from Kate O'Sullivan as chair of the Cymru/Wales region committee in April 2021. She has been a member of the committee since 2013 and has also served on the BSAVA Membership Development Committee. She also recently became the new Editor of the Pocketbook for Vet Nurses.

Ms Gerrard is a registered animal medicines advisor for companion and farm animals, a clinical coach and a tutor for Oncore.

In her role as a council representative she will ensure the views of members in the Cymru/Wales region are represented in council meetings and in discussions with Trustees and members of the Management Team at Woodrow House.

She said: “Being appointed the first VN Council Representative and Regional Chair is a massive achievement for myself and my nursing colleagues. It hasn’t been possible for a VN to fill a Regional Officer role until now.

“I know how long and hard colleagues have worked in order to make this happen and, for that, I am grateful. As the Committee Chair, I would really like to fly the flag for nurses I hope to inspire and empower nurses to join the Association and illustrate what opportunities are available.” 

BSAVA president Professor Ian Ramsey said: “Nurses have already served the Association with distinction in many of our Committees for several years and this is another step towards recognising the importance of nurses within the veterinary team and therefore within the Association. I look forward to seeing more nurses coming forward to help shape the Association in the future.”

Image (c) BSAVA.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.