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Louise - Nursing is a Great Career
Louise Kirby named as Lantra's 2011 Lifelong Learner of the Year.

Louise Kirby, from Laugharne, was named as the Animal Health and Welfare, Horticulture and Environmental Lifelong Learner of the Year winner in Lantra’s 2011 Land-based Learner of the Year Awards, for her dedication to training within the Veterinary Nursing industry.

The Land-based Learner of the Year Awards, held on the 28th November during this year's Winter Fair at the Royal Welsh Showground, celebrates the most exceptional and inspiring learners in Wales' land-based and environmental industries. The awards were presented by Alun Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and European Programmes.

“I originally found it very difficult to enter the Veterinary Nursing sector and was told it was as rare as hen's teeth, although with hard work I have found it is not that hard,” said Louise. “It has certainly been a challenge, but taking the Higher National Certificate in Animal Studies has helped set me on my way.” Louise attended Coleg Sir Gar.

Kevin Thomas, Lantra National Director Wales, said: “Wales' veterinary nursing industry benefits greatly from dedicated individuals like Louise and her commitment to skills and training. I would like to congratulate Louise and all of this year's nominees for the outstanding work they do.”

Mr Thomas continued: “These Awards seek out and honour those in the land-based sector committed to improving their abilities. Their skills are vital to the future success, and in some cases survival, of environmental and land-based industries that contribute so much to the Welsh economy.”

When asked what advice she would give to other people considering the veterinary industry as a career, Louise said: “Work as hard as possible and keep up-to-date with training. Take on any challenges and opportunities that are offered to you.”

To find out more about the 2011 Land-based Learner of the Year Awards, read about the winners or see photos from the event, visit their webpage.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.