AVSPNI Spring Conference

Friday 17 April - 11:45 -12:45 

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

Informed by conversations with professionals across the sector and a deep understanding of current practice, the RCVS initiated the ‘A vision or a necessity: strengthening the role of veterinary nurses in team-based veterinary healthcare’ project to explore how veterinary nurses can be more effectively integrated within multidisciplinary teams, and why doing so is essential for the future of veterinary healthcare. 

The project recognises that achieving meaningful change requires more than new policies; it calls for a fundamental cultural shift. Clear guidance, structured support, and open dialogue will be key in empowering veterinary teams to adapt to a new way of working. 

Following on from a series of workshops that convened stakeholders from across the UK, join Julie Dugmore and Julie Macdonald RVN in this dissemination of results, with discussion on specific ideas and themes emerging from the work. This session will explore the long-term goals and the practical steps needed to achieve them. 

Whether you are a vet nurse, vet surgeon, practice support staff, director, manager, or practice owner, your involvement is key in gaining a broad view and buy-in across a range of perspectives.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the evolving role of the veterinary nurse in team-based care
• Explore strategies for cultural and structural change within veterinary practice
• Contribute to a shared vision and practical roadmap for change

Speakers

Jill Macdonald RVN, RCVS Veterinary Nursing Progression and Development

Jill has worked in veterinary nursing for over 25 years, starting in primary care practice, where she spent 12 years as a lead nurse responsible 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 founded an online CPD company and led research that produced the first communication guide specifically for veterinary nurses. She is also a contributing author of the BSAVA publications '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, RCVS Director of Veterinary Nursing 

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 the RCVS publication 'VN Vision: the Future of Veterinary Nursing', and the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) team-based healthcare competencies. She is also chair of the Accreditation Committee for Veterinary Nurse Education (ACOVENE) and treasurer of the European Specialist Nurses Organisations (ESNO), reflecting her commitment to advancing veterinary nursing education and professional development across the UK and Europe.

If you have a question but are unable to attend the congress, please get in touch by emailing the RCVS Events Team at [email protected].