Legal services restricted for new BVA members
Those within their first three months of membership of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) will soon no longer be eligible for legal services concerning pre-existing or current employment disputes.
The association made the decision to tighten its services offered to new members in order to prevent long-standing members being put at a disadvantage.
As of November 1, 2013, those who are still within their first three months of membership – whether brand new or rejoining – will only have access to the BVA's legal advice line.
After three months of joining, however, members will be eligible to access full legal services offered by the BVA, including mediation and legal representation for employees, and employment law and HR services for employers.
"Feedback from members has been that this benefit should not be accessible immediately on joining the BVA," said the association's president Peter Jones.
"We are keen to ensure that our long standing members are not disadvantaged by those joining the BVA for a limited period, solely to use these services."
Mr Jones added that non-members might want to use this notice-period as a chance to join the association before the implementation date.
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.
