Defra to discuss Veterinary Surgeons Act at BVNA Congress
Defra will share how the new VSA offers 'opportunities' to vet nurses.
The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) is to host two officials from Defra’s Veterinary Policy team at its congress this month.
Natasha Widdowson and Jimmy Lindqvist will represent Defra at BVNA Congress 2026, where they will discuss changes to the Veterinary Surgeons Act. They will form part of a discussion panel and will be offering drop-in slots at the BVNA stand.
The discussion panel, Veterinary Surgeons Act Reform: A veterinary nursing profession ready for the future, will take place in Ironbridge 3 on 10 October 2026 from 1.45pm to 2.45pm.
The session will see Mr Lindqvist provide an update on Defra’s progress with the Veterinary Surgeon Act reform. He will share how this may provide ‘opportunities’ for the veterinary nursing profession.
Mr Lindqvist will be joined by current BVNA president Sarah Holliday, BVA president Gwen Rees, former BVNA president Wendy Nevins and BEVA equine nurses committee chair Marie Rippingale.
Meanwhile, Ms Widdowson will be available at the BVNA stand on both days of the congress. She will be available for drop-in sessions from 11.15am-11.45am and 2.45pm- 3.15pm.
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
