Kirsty Young, Royal College Day 2026 speech

It is an honour to have been elected by my fellow VN Council members as the new Chair of the RCVS Veterinary Nurses Council. Belinda will be a very hard act to follow, after her chairing VN Council so diligently for the last three years.  

During her time as Chair, Belinda has overseen the preparation for legislative reform, and championed the work to develop the veterinary nurse role, including the VN Vision project and potential VN prescribing responsibilities. I aim to continue Belinda’s dedication to VN empowerment. 

Veterinary nursing is a profession built on compassion, resilience, and skill. Every day, veterinary nurses uphold the highest standards of patient care while supporting clients and colleagues through moments of joy and challenge alike. 

To be involved with such a dedicated community is truly inspiring, and I am keen to support the development of the vital role that veterinary nurses play in modern veterinary practice. 

As Chair, my priorities are strengthening professional recognition, supporting well-being, and shaping the future of our profession.  

The reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act can be viewed with excitement and/or trepidation but the potential for change to empower RVNs in their role is key driver for my involvement with RCVS. After more than 25 years in veterinary nursing across clinical practice, education and governance, I’m very proud to take on this role at such an important time for the profession.  

I’ve found my time on VN Council both rewarding and inspiring; I have valued working alongside dedicated colleagues, fellow veterinary nurses, veterinary surgeons and our lay experts, committed to supporting veterinary nurses and advancing the profession. The variety of experiences and skills each member contributes means that VN Council is a strong forum for collaboration, inclusivity and strengthening the veterinary nursing voice.  

During my time thus far on VN Council I’ve been privileged to lead a number of new graduate RVNs in their professional declaration as they start their career. I always find this a poignant moment, gratifying that new members continue to join the profession.  

As Public Advisory Group Chair, I appreciate the opportunity to hear insights and opinions from members of the public that remind us that our veterinary professions are valued and respected, with members highlighting the importance of RVNs in partnership with our veterinary colleagues. 

As VN Council Chair, I look forward to supporting the continued development, recognition and wellbeing of veterinary nurses, while helping to shape the future of the profession through ongoing legislative reform. I am committed to driving positive progress and championing the vital contribution veterinary nurses make to animal health and welfare every day.