Dual Site Head Nurse at White Cross Vets St Helens and Widnes
Could you introduce yourself to our members?
Hi, I’m Andrew – an RVN, Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN) and proud to serve as a director of the VMG. I’ve just passed the milestone of working in clinical practice for 17 years and remain as passionate about veterinary nursing now as when I first started.
Congratulations on notching up 17 years in clinic! How do you feel?
Thank you! It’s flown by! I still feel like that fresh-faced 16-year-old with a big dream of becoming a veterinary nurse. I’ve grown so much since, but that sense of purpose and excitement has stayed with me.
Any high points you particularly remember, or challenges you had to overcome?
There have been highs and lows along the way. One of my biggest challenges was navigating educational struggles early in my training – but I was lucky to have an incredible support system – including teachers and mentors who believed in me, many of whom I’m still in touch with today.
A real high point has been stepping into teaching. Whether it’s through webinars, speaking at VMG Congress, or classroom teaching, sharing what I’ve learned with others has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
Tell us a how your career has progressed and what this has taught you about leadership in the profession.
As an SVN, I was surrounded by a supportive leadership team and colleagues who helped shape my path. Their influence inspired me to grow into a manager and eventually into leadership roles including Senior RVN, HVN and practice manager. Today, I sit on the Nurse Board at IVC.
These roles have taught me that good leadership is about empathy, consistency and empowering others. I try to lead in the same way I was once supported: with patience, openness and a genuine desire to help others succeed.
Despite a demanding practice role, you also find time to volunteer for The Samaritans. Why did you choose to do this, and what does it involve?
Volunteering with The Samaritans is something close to my heart. Working in veterinary practice has shown me how stress and emotional challenges can affect people in profound ways. I wanted to be part of a service that supports people through their toughest moments.
As a Samaritan, I provide emotional support to individuals in distress, listening without judgment, offering a safe and confidential space for them to talk. It’s emotionally intense, but incredibly humbling and fulfilling.
In many ways, it complements my professional role, constantly reminding me of the power of compassion and human connection.
What spurred your interest in joining the VMG board, and what do you hope to contribute?
I joined the VMG board because I wanted to be part of a community that’s driving meaningful change in our profession – supporting, advocating and championing veterinary leaders at all levels.
I hope to contribute to the great work that’s already been done, bringing my experiences in practice and leadership to help create even more opportunities for growth, inclusivity and development across the sector.
