Diversity, inclusivity and widening participation: VN Futures campaigns 2023

The VN Futures initiative, a collaboration between The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), aims to promote veterinary nursing as a career path while promoting the sustainability of the existing workforce. As part of this project, the VN Diversity, Inclusion and Widening Participation Working Group (DIWP) was established in 2021. DIWP seeks to actively promote diversity and inclusivity for those considering a career in veterinary nursing, while also addressing the support needed by those from diverse backgrounds who are already working in the profession.

To date, DIWP has delivered a series of campaigns promoting accessibility of the VN profession to those from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups. Each year, the group is chaired by the BVNA Senior Vice President, and so 2022–23 saw DIWP spearheaded by Alex Taylor. In this article, the author reflects on the campaigns which have been delivered throughout 2023 and looks ahead to the coming year as the new chair of DIWP.