Lauren Hargrave
Biography
I entered the veterinary industry in 2014, working as a receptionist with no knowledge of veterinary nursing. Observing the skills, scope of practice, and vital role of veterinary nurses inspired me to pursue this path. I completed an Access to HE qualification, and then a veterinary nursing degree at University Centre Sparsholt, qualifying as an RVN in 2020. After my student placement and graduate role at Vets for Pets Hayling Island, I spent two years locuming, expanding my knowledge base and clinical skills. In 2022, I began a BSc in Applied Animal Behaviour, graduating with honours in 2024.
I then settled at Vets for Pets Shirley, where I loved that RVN skills were fully utilised. Since joining, I have progressed from RVN to Deputy Head RVN and now People Manager. Since 2024, I have collaborated with the practice owner (also an RVN) to expand our consults into a team-based approach and build on Schedule 3 surgeries. We have shared our model at RCVS VN Vision seminars and presented at BVNA Congress, highlighting how RVNs can maximise their role within legislation. I continue to advocate for advancing veterinary nursing and look forward to sharing our approach more widely this year.
VN Council member category
- Elected member
Declaration of interests
| Directorships | None |
|---|---|
| Relevant financial interests, eg shareholdings, bonds and derivatives | None |
| Consultancies | None |
| Appointments to other bodies | None |
| Membership of other veterinary or allied organisations | BVNA - member |
| Employment | Employed full-time - Vets for Pets Shirley |
| Qualifications (other than veterinary qualifications listed in the Register) | BSc (Hons) - Applied Animal Behaviour |
| Interests relating to immediate family or close friends | None |
| Other relevant information | None |