A game-changing Welsh programme is leading the fight against antibiotic resistance in animals. The Veterinary Prescribing Champion (VPC) network, part of the Welsh Government-backed Arwain DGC initiative, is smashing targets and reshaping vet prescribing habits across Wales.
Vet Network Grows Stronger with Record Participation
Over the past year, the VPC network has surged, with six new practices signed up and 12 fresh champions joining, totalling 86 VPCs covering 91% of eligible Welsh veterinary practices.
These vets are racking up continuous professional development (CPD) credits through workshops and webinars packed with evidence-based insights into prudent antibiotic use.
A recent survey revealed that a whopping 95.8% of vets rate antimicrobial resistance (AMR) discussions as vital to their training, with face-to-face events and webinars in hot demand.
Vets Speak Out: Why Stewardship Matters
“Being part of the VPC network brings a sense of pride to my work,” said Lara Robinson-Fletcher from Daleside Vets. “We share frustrations, successes and support each other in prescribing responsibly. Knowing my prescribing impacts antibiotic resistance drives me to stay vigilant.”
New Leadership and Ambitious Future Plans
Arwain DGC recently appointed Amelia Sidwell as Veterinary Development Manager, who is eager to build on the network’s success.
“I’m honoured to lead this next phase,” Amelia said. “Supporting vets in practice and helping them hit stewardship goals is my priority. The VPC network has come so far, and we’re just getting started.”
Plans include training vets in human behaviour change techniques to improve stewardship, expanding research efforts, and offering more high-quality CPD sessions through webinars and peer discussion groups.
Experts Praise Arwain DGC Programme’s Impact
Dr Joe Angell of Wern Vets Cyf hailed the programme as “hugely impactful” and a “spot-on example of vets, academics and farmers teaming up on a major public health crisis.”
“Results speak volumes: a countrywide drop in antibiotic use, restored antimicrobial sensitivity, and better welfare alongside production. AMR is a real threat and immediate action is essential.”
The VPC network’s innovative approach — combining training, peer support, and data-driven prescribing — is setting a new gold standard for antibiotic stewardship in veterinary medicine across Wales and beyond.
