The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has opened nominations for its annual awards, inviting members and the veterinary nursing profession to recognise individuals who have inspired and supported others.

The awards ceremony will take place at the Dinner Dance and Awards Ceremony during the BVNA Congress 2024.

Nominations are open from 1st June 2024 until 31st July 2024. The award categories include:

Open to BVNA Members and Non-Members:

VNJ Writer of the Year Award

This award is for articles that have encouraged discussions, promoted positive change, or improved clinical standards in practice. Eligible articles must have been published in the Veterinary Nursing Journal (VNJ) between September 2023 and July 2024.

Open to BVNA Members Only:

RVN Champion of the Year

This award recognises a veterinary nurse who has actively raised awareness of the Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) role, ensuring colleagues and clients understand the importance of protecting the title and the legislative reforms affecting veterinary nurses.

RVN Mentor of the Year

This award honours an RVN who has significantly contributed to a colleague’s professional development by supporting their progress as a veterinary nurse, whether in leadership, clinical practice, or other roles.

Student Veterinary Nurse of the Year

This award recognises a student veterinary nurse who has not only excelled in their training but also contributed to raising awareness of the RVN role and supported other students.

Recognition and Celebration

Three finalists from each category will be invited to the BVNA Congress on 12th October 2024, where they will attend the Dinner Dance and Awards Ceremony.

BVNA President, Lyndsay Hughes, expressed her excitement about the awards:

“We are incredibly excited to announce this year’s four award categories. Our annual Awards Ceremony at BVNA Congress is a real highlight, providing a fantastic opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the inspiring work that individuals do and the impact our members have on the wider profession. Simply being put forward for an award also provides a real sense of recognition to all of our nominees.

Our VNJ Writer of the Year Award makes a return for 2024, while we welcome nominations for three new awards. These new categories reflect this year’s current theme of ‘Progression’; recognising and celebrating those who have enabled others to progress, whether they are a student or registered veterinary nurse.

Please take five minutes of your time to look at the categories, and nominate an RVN or SVN who you feel deserves to be recognised. We look forward to reading about all the inspiring individuals who are nominated this year!”

How to Nominate

To nominate someone for any of the categories, visit the BVNA nomination page and complete the nomination form before the deadline on 31st July 2024.

This announcement highlights the BVNA’s commitment to acknowledging the hard work and dedication of veterinary nurses and students, encouraging further excellence and progression within the profession.