VN Vision

A vision or a necessity? Strengthening the role of veterinary nurses in team-based veterinary healthcare

This session focuses on how veterinary nurses can be more effectively integrated into multidisciplinary teams, and why this is essential for the future of veterinary care.

The work is part of the ongoing RCVS project - ‘A vision or a necessity? Strengthening the role of veterinary nurses in team-based veterinary healthcare’, which is the first derivative project to emerge from the ‘VN Vision: The future of team-based veterinary healthcare’ work.

Our vision

We are working towards a fully collaborative team model in which:

• Veterinary nurses practise to the full extent of their skills

• Veterinary surgeons are supported in clinical decision-making

• Support teams are recognised for the value they contribute

• Patient care and client experience benefit from a joined up approach

The session will offer an overview of the work so far, and the key themes emerging from the research. We will also ask for you input on the following:

• What does team-based veterinary healthcare mean to you?
• What is the long-term goal (impact) that we should aim for with the project?
• What are the outcomes that feed into the long-term goal?
• What are the factors that may help or hinder reaching the long-term goal?

Why everyone’s voice matters

Whether you’re a veterinary nurse, veterinary surgeon, support team member, manager, practice owner, or director, your experience shapes this work. A broad range of perspectives ensures practical solutions and stronger buy in across the profession.

Who is this Academy Live session for?

Anyone working within the practice team.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Evaluate the potential impact of strengthened veterinary nurse (VN) roles on veterinary team effectiveness, patient care, and professional sustainability across diverse practice settings
• Contribute to the development of a clear and meaningful impact statement (long-term goal) for the project
• Identify and define outcomes that support and contribute to achieving the long-term goal
• Identify and prioritise key enablers and preventers influencing the effective utilisation of VNs within team-based veterinary healthcare.

Session speakers

Jill Macdonald, DipAVN (Surgical) RVN FHEA

J.macdonald@rcvs.org.uk

Jill has worked in veterinary nursing for over 25 years, starting in primary care practice where she spent 12 years as a lead nurse, with responsibilities for nursing standards and training across the practice. She later joined the University of Liverpool Vet School, establishing and delivering postgraduate veterinary education and contributing to undergraduate teaching in professional and communication skills.

A passionate advocate for veterinary nursing, Jill has founded an online CPD company and led research producing the first communication guide specifically for veterinary nurses. She is a contributing author for the BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing and Professionalism and Reflection in Veterinary Nursing.

Currently, Jill is Veterinary Nursing Progression and Development Lead at the RCVS, where she works on initiatives that drive advancement within the veterinary nursing profession.

Julie Dugmore, RVN

j.dugmore@rcvs.org.uk

Julie has worked in veterinary nursing for nearly 40 years, beginning in small animal practice where she developed strong clinical skills and a passion for mentoring. She moved into teaching, creating learning resources and delivering veterinary and dental nursing programmes, gaining broad insight into the UK education and training system.

A dedicated advocate for the profession, Julie has focused on strengthening standards, education, and professional recognition for veterinary nurses. As Director of Veterinary Nursing at the RCVS, she supports the profession’s development, ensuring nurses are recognised, integrated, and able to work to their full potential.

Julie contributed to VN Vision: The Future of Veterinary Nursing, RCVS publications, and the AAVMC Team-Based Healthcare competencies. She is also Chair of ACOVENE and Treasurer of ESNO, reflecting her commitment to advancing veterinary nursing education and professional development across the UK and Europe.

Academy Course Resources:

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FAQs

Participation

We invite participation in Academy Live sessions, welcoming questions and feedback throughout.

Will the session be recorded?

Please note that this event will not be recorded or transcribed.

What happens if I can no longer attend the session?

Please contact the RCVS Events team to cancel your place.