Sarah qualified as an RVN in 2008, and has since had a varied career within veterinary nursing – gaining experience in both clinical and non-clinical roles, with small animals and wildlife, and in primary care and referral settings. She is currently the senior oncology nurse at a large referral hospital in Surrey.
In Sarah’s inaugural speech as president, she introduced her presidential theme of "Compassion and empathy". She committed to listening as a priority – in turn, ensuring the voice of veterinary nurses would be “recognised, respected and represented” not just within veterinary clinics, but across the wider profession and society.
In her address to members during BVNA’s annual general meeting, Sarah said: “Compassion and empathy will mean something different to each of us. Personally, this theme really aligns with my role as an oncology RVN, whether that is supporting an owner through end-of-life care, hand feeding an inpatient, or making a colleague a cup of tea during a difficult shift.
“I believe this theme showcases the holistic nature of RVNs. We embed compassion in every part of our roles and it is at the heart of all we do. My vision is that this theme enables us to highlight the impact veterinary nurses have on our patients, their families and those within the profession. I am sure we all have an example of when a veterinary nurse’s compassion has made a real difference to someone’s life.”
Sarah continued, “I hope we can use this opportunity to recognise those that have demonstrated exceptional empathy and compassion within their role, and act as a reminder to show compassion to ourselves whilst working within the veterinary profession.”
Lyndsay Hughes now steps into the post of BVNA senior vice president, having served a two-year term as president. During her outgoing address, Lyndsay reflected on key issues from the past 12 months which remain ongoing, including the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation and the increasing need for legislation reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.
Lyndsay said: “[BVNA has] worked tirelessly to represent you on national platforms, in discussions with policymakers, and in partnership with other veterinary organisations. We have continued to push forward initiatives on mental health and wellbeing, professional recognition, and career development.
“One of the most significant developments this year has been the CMA investigation of veterinary services… For veterinary nurses, this work is vital because it touches on issues that directly affect client confidence, workplace culture, and ultimately, the way we are able to do our jobs.
“The Veterinary Surgeons Act, which underpins our profession, is decades out of date. In our discussions with the UK Government Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), we have been clear: reform must give veterinary nurses the recognition and clarity we deserve.
“Legislative reform is, in many ways, the ultimate progression for our profession. A chance to secure the recognition and respect that veterinary nurses have worked so hard to earn, and to shape a legal framework fit for the future.”
BVNA also ratified its Officer team for 2025-6, alongside new BVNA Council Members commencing their three-year term:
BVNA Officer team for 2025 to 2026
- President – Sarah Holliday, RVN
- Senior Vice President – Lyndsay Hughes, RVN
- Junior Vice President – Steph Worsle,y RVN
- Honorary Secretary – Nikki McLeod, RVN
- Honorary Treasurer – Hamish Morrin, RVN
New BVNA Council members
- Emily Bacon, RVN
- Macauly Gatenby, RVN
- Dan Lidgbird, RVN
- Krishna Mistry, RVN
- Alice Langstone, SVN (Student seat)
The Association also awarded its latest honorary membership to Jane More, RVN, in recognition of her long-standing and unwavering support to both BVNA and veterinary nursing more widely.
Jane has worked within the veterinary nursing profession for 50 years, championing the role and advocating for veterinary nurses throughout her career. Jane served nine years on BVNA Council, including a term as BVNA president between 1998 to 1999. Jane was also one of the starting committee members of the Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund, which provides financial aid to BVNA members and their families who are in need, hardship or distress. Jane has subsequently served 25 years on the Fund’s committee, ensuring that veterinary nurses in need are able to access support that they may need.
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