An Introspective Discussion About EDI in the Veterinary Profession

Navaratnam Partheeban BVM&S BSc MRCVS OBE, (known as Theeb), co-founder British Veterinary Ethnicity and Diversity Society (BVEDS) brings a varied background of clinical farm practice and industry including research and pharmaceuticals and a wealth of knowledge and fascination with equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the veterinary profession, alongside our very own Ami Sawran BVSc PgCertVPS CertAVP(CP) PhD FRCVS making this a must-listen podcast! Join us as we reflect on what EDI really means, and the importance of personal introspection to consider our individual privileges and barriers to then appreciate the privileges and barriers of those around us, and how they may affect equality, diversity and inclusivity of the veterinary profession. Though the veterinary profession and agricultural sector is improving, we are still a very un-diverse population, which needs to be recognised. We discuss simple inclusive language changes as well as easy ways to connect with clients, particularly on farm or in ambulatory practice, a technique that can help minimise the differences we may otherwise have. Sexism is still the most reported type of discrimination both across the board and in veterinary practice, despite the feminisation of the workforce. We talk about how this can be prevented through communication, self-education and allyship. Allyship can mean different things in different scenarios. It may not always be safe to speak out, but small changes with trusted peers and loved ones, conversations with clients and good leadership are some of them. Tune in to find out more! Want to know more? Check out the Agdiversity online awareness course for EDI by following this link: https://www.nuffieldscholar.org/agdiversity