BVNA calls for greater vet nurse role in RCVS governance
There are currently two RVNs on RCVS Council.
The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has called for greater involvement of veterinary nurses in the governance of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
Responding to the consultation being run by the RCVS into its proposed governance reforms, BVNA called the idea of veterinary surgeons as the ‘lead profession’ in the veterinary sector a ‘dated concept’, arguing that veterinary nurses are as equally responsible for the welfare of the patients in their care.
While there are currently two RVNs on RCVS Council, appointed by VN Council, BVNA wants the reforms to lead to ‘an equal proportion of representation between both professions currently already under regulation by the RCVS’.
Among its recommendations to help achieve this, BVNA wants to see the size of RCVS Council reduced to 12 members, matching the proposed reduction in size of VN Council and bringing both into line with the regulatory norm.
BVNA also wants to ensure that veterinary nurses have an equal opportunity to vote. It says that while VN Council exists to discuss some matters in the veterinary nursing profession, ‘it does not afford its members voting rights, and therefore the same degree of influence as afforded to those on RCVS Council’.
The response also raises concerns that the inclusion of ‘allied professions’ could see veterinary nursing fall into this category, possibly diminishing public recognition of the role at a time when efforts are being made to raise awareness of veterinary nursing.
Lyndsay Hughes, BVNA president, said: “Veterinary nurses are already long established as a regulated and professional workforce. We lead in many aspects of professional and clinical practice, with joint responsibility for the welfare of patients in our care.
“Therefore, it is BVNA’s view that veterinary nurses are also fully capable of contributing equally towards the college’s governance; as one of the two professions already under RCVS regulation.
“We hope that this consultation will provide the opportunity for the RCVS to consider how veterinary nurses can be better utilised within its future approach to governance.”
The full response can be read here.
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