BSAVA volunteers recognised for invaluable contributions
"Our wonderful volunteers are at the heart of BSAVA" - Carole Haile, volunteers manager.
The BSAVA has paid tribute to more than 150 volunteers that help to run the association, in roles ranging from student representatives at universities right through its Board of Trustees.
Many of the volunteers form part of BSAVA’s Working Committee, which also covers key elements of the association, including publications, science, education PetSavers management and congress.
The recognition from Carole Haile, volunteers manager, comes during National Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) – a national campaign that celebrates the contribution volunteers make to communities.
Ms Haile said: “Our wonderful volunteers are the heart of the BSAVA. Each one is an important cog in the larger machine and we would not be able to operate without them. It goes without saying that volunteers have played a key role in the pandemic response and Volunteers' Week is a time for us to come together and thank all our volunteers for their invaluable contribution.”
BSAVA’s Volunteer Development Committee ensures that volunteers are in posts that are of most interest to them. As part of the Committee, BSAVA is rolling out a Volunteer Development Programme to offer training opportunities for all volunteers – enabling them to improve skills that may be of use to them in their everyday work.
Susan Dawson, chair of the Volunteer Development Committee, said: “I am delighted to be joining the heart of the BSAVA volunteer family as chair of the volunteer development committee. As a past president of the association, I have experienced all the benefits that can be gained from being a BSAVA volunteer - having fun, making friends, and making a difference.
"I look forward to working with everyone to provide equal opportunities for all our members to become BSAVA volunteers in whatever capacity works best for them.”
Many volunteers remain with the BSAVA for several years and take on various roles during their time. To find out more about volunteering opportunities at the BSAVA, contact Carole at volunteer@bsava.com
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
