Novartis Animal Health has announced the winners of the Best Practice Employer Awards, set up to recognise vets and veterinary practices that create the best working environment for their nursing and support staff.

This year, there was a special award for the veterinary nurse that made best use of the opportunities given to them by their employer, which was won by Katherine Corbett VN from Nine Lives Veterinary Practice in Redbourne. On her own initiative, she'd set up a series of talks at local schools to recruit new clients for her practice, and her attention to detail impressed all the judges.

Even more remarkable was Katherine's first question when told of her £500 prize: "Can I spend it on buying one of Kruuse's Buster ICU cages for the practice? Emily has given me so much; I'd love to give something back."

How many of us would immediately give the lion's share of a prize back to our boss? Probably not many, and it speaks volumes both about Katherine and Emily, her boss.  Indeed, Katherine has unwittingly become something of an ambassador for the nursing profession.

Rachel Smithson, Marketing Manager at Novartis said: "We're using the awards to spread the word in the wider profession about the benefits of creating a good working environment for nurses. Katherine's spontaneous generosity really captured the spirit of the awards, and I can think of few better ways to demonstrate the kind of dedication that veterinary nurses give a good boss".

The winners and their teams are pictured below: 

Sarah Palmer (left) of Novartis Animal Health makes the presentation to head nurse Katherine Corbett and veterinary surgeon Emily Holbrook of Nine Lives Veterinary Practice; behind them are Anne Corbett (receptionist), Lindsay Harrison (nursing assistant), and Laura Steele (veterinary surgeon).

Kenneth Agnew from Novartis Animal Health prepares to present Kenneth Davison with his Best Practice Employer Award, whilst the team toast their boss.

Veterinary Nursing Assistant Abby Brown (left) and Abby Roberts from Novartis Animal Health toast Garth Tozer, Novartis Best Practice Employer Award winner. 

Donna Lewis (BVNA), and Novartis Animal Health CEO George Gunn present Dr Richard Dixon with his award.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.