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Veterinary nurse scoops writer of the year award
Ciar Pembroke has been named winner of the VNJ Writer of the Year Award.
Ciar Pembroke's article explored the barriers affecting BAME veterinary students.

A veterinary nurse from Hertfordshire has been crowned winner of the 2022 VNJ Writer of the Year Award for her article on barriers affecting BAME veterinary students.

Ciar Pembroke's paper, published in the VNJ earlier this year, was titled Barriers affecting BAME students’ access and attainment in veterinary higher education. The award recognises articles that have driven positive change, encouraged discussions, or improved clinical standards in practice.

An RVN at Davies Veterinary Specialists, Ciar explained that the main aim behind her article was to help acknowledge and understand why the veterinary sector is the least diverse profession in the UK - with veterinary nursing being worse than veterinary medicine. 

In the second part of the study, Ciar explores the barriers and discusses potential solutions under the main themes of exposure, pathways, isolation/marginalisation, the learning environment and teaching styles.

Commenting on Ciar's achievement, Davies hospital director, Ben Orton, said: “We are extremely proud that she is a member of our nursing team here at Davies. Her drive, focus and commitment strongly reflect our hospital ethos, and her article pertinently and comprehensively tackles the very important subject of BAME representation within the veterinary sector.” 

The full article is available to read on the British Veterinary Nursing Association website.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 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.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.