The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has today launched registrations for its annual three-day Congress, taking place this year between Friday 9th and Sunday 11th October 2026 at Telford International Centre.
Long-established as the UK’s largest event dedicated to veterinary nurses, this year’s BVNA Congress will embrace a theme of ‘Compassion and Empathy’. At a time when the veterinary nursing profession continues to navigate both challenges and opportunities, BVNA invites individuals to come together and share in the strength of community – to feel energised, supported and inspired by their peers.
A full three-day lecture stream will be accompanied by practical and hands-on learning opportunities, along with a large exhibition for delegates to explore the industry’s latest products and services.
Tickets are now on sale, with a special launch discount available until 30 April 2026
BVNA members have exclusive access to a special member discount. All non-members will receive a year’s digital BVNA membership included within their BVNA Congress registration. Register here.
The BVNA Congress Preview Scientific Programme can also be found here.
Compassion and Empathy
Each morning includes a headline ‘Compassion and Empathy’ stream, designed to provide a supportive space to explore how these values show up within the veterinary workplace – whether for patients, clients, colleagues, or the compassion we allow for ourselves. This stream will delve into thought-provoking and relevant issues for the veterinary nursing profession, from developing a ‘no blame’ practice culture, to fertility and parenthood, and balancing a career whilst managing a chronic illness.
Introducing keynote speaker, Linda Ryan
Speaking on this year’s BVNA Congress theme will be renowned veterinary nurse Linda Ryan, a Veterinary Technician Specialism (VTS) holder in both Behaviour and Oncology. Passionate about fostering a mutually beneficial human-animal bond, Linda’s career to date has embodied bringing compassion and empathy to the heart of interactions with animals and their caregivers. BVNA is honoured to welcome Linda to share her experiences with delegates, in what will be an unmissable keynote lecture opening the event on Friday 9th October.
Key features for 2026
Responding to delegate and member feedback, BVNA has carefully curated a varied programme to reflect the diverse career pathways shaped by veterinary nurses.
With all learning tailored to the specific needs of the veterinary nursing profession, lecture streams include:
- Dedicated streams for referral and first opinion nursing
- Anaesthesia and analgesia
- Emergency and critical care
- Advanced clinical nursing
- Nutrition
- Equine nursing
- Wildlife, exotics and zoo
- Student
- Veterinary care assistants
Delegates will also have access to hands-on and small group learning, with practical workshops available to book on a first-come, first-serve basis. This year’s workshop programme offers the opportunity to upgrade skills and confidence in laboratory techniques, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, wound management, CPR, and more.
Connection with the veterinary nursing community
At BVNA Congress, learning and community go hand-in-hand. A visit to the large yet friendly exhibition between lectures will provide valuable opportunities to network with exhibitors, or meet with friends and colleagues.
The exhibition’s ‘Makers Market’ will also make a triumphant return in 2026, along with a new Nurse-Led CPD Market, making the event accessible for veterinary nurses with small businesses and side-hustles. As a new feature for 2026, the Exhibition Hub Theatre will provide interactive discussions, sharing ideas and greater insight into the latest industry developments.
Delegates are also invited to attend the annual BVNA Dinner Dance and Awards Ceremony, taking place on Friday 9th October. With a ‘Winter Wonderland’ theme, this popular social event delivers much-needed downtime to relax and celebrate with friends.
Message from BVNA President, Sarah Holliday:
Sarah says: “I am delighted to invite the veterinary nursing community to join us for BVNA Congress 2026, which consistently delivers a high-energy and inspiring event dedicated to our unique profession. Alongside opportunities to develop our professional skills and knowledge, we’re proud to also provide a vital source of peer support.
“My presidential theme of ‘Compassion and Empathy’ will be reflected throughout the event and scientific programme. As veterinary nurses, we provide skilled care for our patients and veterinary clients, and we also support our colleagues around us. The traits of compassion and empathy underpin everything we do. However, it can be easy to overlook the importance of taking care of ourselves. I am looking forward to providing a timely reminder to the profession to promote our own self-kindness and care – enabling us to remain resilient and thrive in our work.
“I will also be honoured to celebrate our profession during our annual Dinner Dance and Awards Ceremony. It is always a highlight of the President’s calendar to showcase inspirational individuals whose hard work and dedication often goes unseen. BVNA will be announcing our 2026 award categories in the coming months – please take the opportunity to nominate an individual who deserves this recognition.
“At BVNA, we’re so proud of the friendly and warm atmosphere that delegates can always expect when they visit BVNA Congress – whether attending as a solo visitor or as part of a group. I look forward to seeing you there this year!”
Book your tickets today
Don’t miss the opportunity to join the veterinary nursing event of the year. For more information and to register, visit www.bvna.org.uk/congress.
Leave a Reply