StreetVet team members achieve leadership qualifications
"It’s given me the chance to grow as a leader, to develop skills I genuinely enjoy using and to bring new insights back to my team." - Monique Fort.
Two members of StreetVet’s team have achieved a globally recognised leadership qualifications, following support from the Institute of Leadership (IoL).
Operations manager Sarah Matthews and clinical case team lead Monique Fort are the first of the StreetVet team to undertake the Level 5 Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management.
Their qualifications were supported by a £5,000 grant, which IoL awarded to the Veterinary Management Group (VMG). It forms part of an initiative to promote leadership development in small and medium-sized organisations.
The VMG/ILM Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management is a year-long programme, which offers learners the flexibility to focus on areas relevant to their roles and career goals. The syllabus consists of two core modules and two optional modules, each running for approximately nine weeks.
The training includes guided online learning, supported by interactive tutorials led by experienced leaders and coaches.
Zoe Abbotts, StreetVet CEO, said: “Sarah and Monique are the first StreetVet staff to gain a professional leadership qualification and I’ve already observed a tangible impact on the team as they have adapted their leadership styles, are communicating with greater confidence and approaching challenges more collaboratively.
“Leadership training of this kind is a valuable investment in both the sustainability of the charity and the professional growth of our team. If funding allows, we’re keen to extend this opportunity to others in the future.”
StreetVet is an award-winning charity which provides free veterinary care for the pets of those experiencing homelessness. The rapidly expanding team has more than 350 volunteers, which make up 24 teams of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.
Monique Fort said: “Completing this qualification has meant a great deal to me, both personally and professionally. It’s given me the chance to grow as a leader, to develop skills I genuinely enjoy using and to bring new insights back to my team. I feel honoured and grateful to have had this opportunity.”
Amy Martin RVN MA, Learning and Development Manager of the VMG, said: “It’s been a privilege to support the learning journey of these members of StreetVet’s leadership team and to see the positive impact of their hard work, both on them as individuals and on the charity’s wider team.
“The VMG worked hard to secure funding for this worthy cause because of its fundamental belief in the value of leadership training for all those working in the veterinary profession.”
Image © StreetVet
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
