Pride in the veterinary professions
The RCVS is committed to supporting inclusive veterinary professions where everyone can thrive. Pride Month in June provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ veterinary professionals and to reflect on the importance of visibility, belonging and equity within the veterinary workforce.
This page brings together reflections and experiences from veterinary professionals across the sector, highlighting diverse career journeys and perspectives from within the LGBTQ+ community.
Voices from the professions
Below are contributions from veterinary professionals sharing their experiences of working in the veterinary profession as LGBTQ+ individuals. These perspectives help to foster understanding, celebrate diversity, and support ongoing inclusion across the profession.
Blog: Helen Redpath MRCVS
Role: locum in small animal clinical work alongside large animal Official Veterinarian duties
Pride Month is both a protest and a celebration, writes Helen Redpath MRCVS. For Helen, it is a rejection of prejudice against the LGBTQ+ community and a recognition of its growing visibility within the veterinary profession.
Read Helen's blog: "What Pride Month means to me"
Blog: Sam Morgan RVN
Role: Director and Lecturer, Abbeydale Vet Nurse Training, past President of the BVNA
Veterinary nurse and educator Sam Morgan reflects on the progress of LGBTQ+ rights, while acknowledging that openness and acceptance are still not universal.
Read Sam's blog: "What Pride Month means to me"
Blog: Luke McBlain MRCVS
Role: vet and team lead for a large veterinary charity
Luke McBlain sees Pride Month as a chance to celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ people and also recognise the sacrifices made by previous generations.
Read Luke's blog: "What Pride Month means to me"
Blog: Ida Tomas MRCVS
Role: vet specialising in small‑animal work at a Greater Manchester practice
Ida Tomas reflects on navigating LGBTQ+ identity and visibility in veterinary practice, and the impact of everyday language at work.
Read Ida's blog: "What Pride Month means to me"
Supporting inclusion in the profession
The RCVS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the veterinary sector. We continue to work with colleagues, practices and educational institutions to ensure that all veterinary professionals feel supported and able to work in an environment where they can be open about who they are.
Get involved
If you would like to contribute to future Pride features or share your experiences as part of the veterinary profession, please contact the RCVS Diversity and Inclusion Team by emailing [email protected].
Mental health support
Please note that not all listed organisations provide support to every LGBTQIA+ group, and terminology may vary between organisations. We have used the terms each organisation uses to describe its own services.
LGBT Foundation helpline
A friendly, non-judgemental listening service for the LGBT community. It is available Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm. Call 0345 330 3030, email [email protected], or visit the LGBT Foundation website.
Switchboard - national LGBTQIA+ helpline
A friendly, confidential, and non-judgemental support service for the LGBTQIA+ community. Their service is available every day, 10am–10pm. Call 0800 011 9100, email [email protected], or visit the Switchboard website, which has a chat function.
Galop - national LGBT+ domestic abuse helpline
Confidential emotional support, guidance and help for LGBTQ+ people aged 18+ who are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse or violence. Call 0800 999 5428, email [email protected], or visit the galop website, which has a chat function .
British Veterinary LGBT+ Society (BVLGBT+)
BVLGBT+ is a community of LGBTQ+ people and allies working across the veterinary professions. The society promotes inclusion, provides support and networking opportunities, and works to create a welcoming environment for everyone in the profession. Visit the BVLGBT+ website.
Further mental health support
For additional mental health support services, including the NHS, Samaritans, Shout and Vetlife, please visit the RCVS Mind Matters Get support page.
Practical support
Equality Advisory & Support Service (EASS) helpline
Free and confidential advice on equality and human rights issues for people across England, Scotland and Wales (Cymru). Call 0808 800 0082, or visit the Equality Advisory & Support Service website, which has a chat function.
Equality Commission for Northern Ireland
Works to challenge discrimination and promote equality in Northern Ireland. It provides free and confidential advice and support. Call 028 9050 0600 (10am–4pm) or complete the online enquiry form via the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland website.
Citizens Advice (England, Scotland and Wales/Cymru) and Advice NI (Northern Ireland)
Free, confidential and impartial information and advice on a wide range of issues, whatever your circumstances.
- England: Call 0800 144 8848 to speak to an adviser, or visit the Citizens Advice website.
- Wales (Cymru): Call 0800 702 2020 to speak to an adviser, or visit the Citizens Advice website.
- Scotland: Call 0800 028 1456 to speak to an adviser, or visit the Citizens Advice Scotland website.
- Northern Ireland: Call 0800 915 4604, email [email protected], or visit the Advice NI website.
Services are generally available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.