New BSAVA President to focus on education and wellbeing

New BSAVA President to focus on education and wellbeing

The new president of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association has put education and workplace wellbeing at the top of her priority list for her year in office

Alison Speakman takes over from outgoing President, Sheldon Middleton having been an active member of the BSAVA since graduating from the University of Glasgow Veterinary School in 1991.

Alison, who works in small animal practice and has completed a residency in feline medicine at Liverpool University’s School of Veterinary Science, as well as a PhD in canine Bordetella bronchiseptica, said she looked forward to “building upon his achievements of the last 12 months.”

“There’s no doubt that Sheldon is a hard act to follow.

“I’ve been a passionate member of the BSAVA throughout my career and a volunteer for almost as long. And as a working vet, I know first-hand the value of being part of a professional community: the importance of shared values, educational opportunities, and support shouldn’t be underestimated.

“We must remain focussed on the day-to-day challenges veterinary teams face, respond appropriately and at pace, and continue to explore new and effective ways to support our members.”

With that in mind, her three priorities for the year ahead are to:

  • Deliver ever-more innovative material across the BSAVA’s Education, Congress, and Publications arms;
  • Develop a wider digital offering so that BSAVA materials are widely available and easily accessible;
  • Highlight the importance of mental health, stress management, and wellbeing, and develop resources and member benefits to help ensure the safety and happiness of people within the veterinary profession.

She added: “I am enormously proud to be a member of a profession that requires and excels in such a broad set of skills: intellect, knowledge, practical dexterity, compassion, and resilience under pressure – all of which are tested on a daily basis! There is no other profession like it and to be President of an association which represents such people is overwhelming.”

To find out more about the BSAVA membership, structure, and purpose, please visit the BSAVA website at www.bsava.com.