Belinda Andrews-Jones, Royal College Day 2026 speech

As I stand here today for my final address as Chair of the RCVS Veterinary Nurses Council, I find myself reflecting on what an incredible privilege it has been to serve in this role. 

When I first joined VN Council, and later took on the role of Chair, I had one overriding ambition: to do everything within my influence to help create a future where Registered Veterinary Nurses can fulfil more of their potential, contribute more fully to patient care, and be recognised for the highly skilled professionals they are. 

Throughout my time on Council, I have consistently championed the need for reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act. My belief has always been simple: if a human nurse can undertake a task safely and effectively with the right education, training, skills and governance, then we should be asking why veterinary nurses cannot do the same. 

Veterinary nursing has evolved enormously over the years. Today's RVNs are highly trained professionals, yet legislative restrictions continue to limit what they can contribute. I remain convinced that modernising our legislative framework is essential if we are to unlock the full potential of our profession. 

While that journey continues, I am immensely proud of the progress that has been made during my time on Council. One of the most significant pieces of work has been the development of the VN Vision. Through that work, we have challenged ourselves to consider what veterinary nursing should be, rather than simply what it has always been. The conversations, collaborations and ambitions that emerged from the VN Vision have helped shape a stronger, more confident direction for our profession. 

I have also been privileged to contribute to the ongoing redevelopment of the Practice Standards Scheme. This work will help practices continue to evolve alongside modern veterinary care, supporting high standards, innovation, team-based working and positive cultures across the profession. 

Of all the experiences I have had during my time as Chair, however, one stands out above all others. 

I have had the extraordinary honour of welcoming and administering the professional declaration to well over a thousand newly qualified Registered Veterinary Nurses at graduation ceremonies across the country. 

Each declaration represented far more than a ceremonial moment. It marked years of hard work, determination and commitment. Standing alongside those graduates as they formally entered our profession has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Their enthusiasm, passion and optimism for the future have continually reminded me why the work we do matters. 

They are the future of veterinary nursing. They are the reason we must continue to challenge ourselves, continue to modernise, and continue to advocate for a profession that enables them to thrive. 

As I hand over the role of Chair to Kirsty Young, I do so with confidence and optimism. I know that the profession is in capable hands and that the momentum for positive change will continue. 

I would like to thank my fellow Council members, RCVS colleagues, veterinary nurses, and all those who have supported me throughout this journey. Your passion, expertise and dedication have inspired me every step of the way. 

I would also like to thank my employers for their support throughout my time as Chair and for giving me the flexibility and encouragement to contribute to the wider profession. Without that support, much of what I have achieved would not have been possible. 

Finally, I would like to thank my family. Serving on Council and as Chair has been an incredible honour, but it has also required time, commitment and many hours away from home. Your patience, understanding, encouragement and unwavering support have made this journey possible. 

Although my time as Chair is coming to an end, my commitment to veterinary nursing certainly is not. I will continue to be a passionate advocate for our profession and for a future where veterinary nurses are empowered, recognised and enabled to practise to the very best of their abilities. 

Thank you for the trust you have placed in me. It has truly been one of the greatest honours of my professional life.