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BVA launches voluntary code for workplaces
"Each and every one of us deserves to work in a setting where we feel valued" - Gudrun Ravetz.
Code sets out vision for more welcoming and inclusive environments.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has launched a new voluntary code for workplaces to help ensure that working settings are supportive and welcoming for all members of the veterinary team.

Coinciding with 2020's International Week of Happiness at Work (21-27 Sep), the Good Veterinary Workplace Voluntary Code sets out criteria for what makes a good workplace. It is based on a new evidence-based BVA policy position, developed with input from a working group formed in April 2019.

Gudrun Ravetz, chair of the Good Workplace Working Group, explained: “I’m absolutely delighted to see the launch of our valuable and comprehensive policy, which sets out a vision of the good veterinary workplaces that we should all be striving to create across the profession.

“This vision has been shaped by valuable contributions from across the veterinary community, and it’s also been really useful to draw on good practice in the wider world of work.”

The Code is accompanied by a workbook in which teams will be asked to assess what they already do well in areas such as diversity and equality, health and wellbeing, workload and flexibility. It also asks teams to identify areas for improvement and any HR and management processes that need to be introduced to achieve a positive workplace culture.

The Policy Position on which the Code is based offers 64 practical recommendations for employers and staff on how to offer a fair and rewarding work environment where everyone feels valued. It includes 36 case studies highlighting successful changes and initiatives implemented in the veterinary profession and more widely in the world of work.

It was developed in response to a joint BVA/RCVS-led Vet Futures project, looking at key workforce issues in the profession, including recruitment and retention challenges, a lack of diversity, and general high levels of stress in veterinary teams.

Gudrun Revetz added: “Each and every one of us deserves to work in a setting where we feel valued, supported and fairly rewarded for the contribution we make, but sadly this isn’t the reality for all veterinary professionals.

“By setting out the steps that all veterinary workplaces can take to offer a more welcoming and inclusive environment, with measures in place to help them address issues and continue to improve, we hope to see more workplaces where staff can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling career.”

The workbook is accompanied by Voluntary Code poster, which teams are encouraged to download, sign and display to show their commitment to working towards being a good veterinary workplace.

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Vets to run marathon for World Animal Protection

News Story 1
 Two recently graduated veterinary surgeons will be running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity World Animal Protection.

Alex Bartlett and Maeve O'Neill plan to run the race together if they are given the same start times.

Dr O'Neill said: "You're always limited in what you can do to help animals, so it is nice to raise money for a charity that helps animals around the world."

Dr Bartlett added: "I have never run a marathon before and am excited to run my first one for such a good cause!"

Both Dr Bartlett and Dr O'Neill have fundraising pages online. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA releases new Guide to Procedures

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new edition of its Guide to Procedures for Small Animal Practice.

It has added four new procedures; cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound and wet-to-dry dressings.

BSAVA says that it is an essential step-by-step guide to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in practice. The textbook includes new images and illustrations, as well as high-definition videos for use prior to procedures.

Nick Bexfield and Julia Riggs, editors of the new edition, said: "We have built upon the success of the previous editions by responding to the feedback received from the BSAVA readership, and hope this new guide helps to further increase the confidence and accuracy with which these procedures are performed."

Print copies are available in the BSAVA store, with a digital version in the BSAVA library.