Each VNAM also includes an annual competition hosted by BVNA. This year’s invitation for nominations of ‘Unsung Heroes’ sought to put individual veterinary nurses and teams into the spotlight, showcasing their unwavering care and dedication which often goes on behind the scenes, out of view of the public.
The two competition winners and two runners-up are:
Winners
- Individual: Sharon Phillips
- Team: The veterinary nursing team at Barrow Hill Vets
- Individual: Zoe Laycock
- Team: The veterinary nursing team at ChesterGates Veterinary Specialists
BVNA President Sarah Holliday commented: “We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to BVNA's 'Unsung Heroes' nominations during VNAM 2026. Thank you to all those who took the time to nominate a registered veterinary nurse, student veterinary nurse, or veterinary nursing team who has made a lasting difference to the people and animals around them.
“We received nearly 200 truly inspiring and uplifting nominations, all of which completely embodied this year’s theme of ‘compassion and empathy’, and it was incredibly difficult for our VNAM committee to shortlist them. While I congratulate this year's worthy winners, I would also like to congratulate every one of the deserving nominees. We hope the campaign has provided the profession with the boost of positivity and recognition that we aim to achieve during VNAM each year.
“Of course, the key goal of every VNAM is to raise awareness of veterinary nursing amongst the public, and I would like to thank everyone who participated and played their part throughout May. BVNA continues to push for positive change for our profession, including reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and protection of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title. Public awareness will be instrumental in achieving these outcomes, so it has therefore never been more important to champion and showcase veterinary nursing - all year round."
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