A groundbreaking Welsh programme is smashing antibiotic resistance in animals. The Veterinary Prescribing Champion (VPC) network, part of the Welsh Government-backed Arwain DGC initiative, is rewriting the rulebook on how vets prescribe antibiotics across Wales.
Vet Network Booms with Record Sign-Ups
In the last year, the VPC network has exploded. Six new practices and 12 new champions have joined, bringing the total to 86 vets covering a whopping 91% of eligible Welsh vet practices.
These champions are racking up CPD credits through workshops and webinars stuffed with the latest evidence on responsible antibiotic use.
A recent survey found 95.8% of vets see antimicrobial resistance (AMR) training as crucial. Face-to-face events and webinars are flying off the shelves.
Vets Speak Out: Why It 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.”
Fresh Faces, Big Ambitions
Arwain DGC has appointed Amelia Sidwell as Veterinary Development Manager, ready to push the programme to new heights.
“I’m honoured to lead this next phase,” Amelia said. “Supporting vets and helping them hit stewardship targets is my priority. The VPC network has come so far, and we’re just getting started.”
Plans are afoot to train vets in human behaviour change techniques, expand research, and deliver more top-notch CPD through webinars and peer groups.
Experts Back the Programme’s Success
Dr Joe Angell of Wern Vets Cyf praised the initiative as “hugely impactful” and “a brilliant example of vets, academics and farmers teaming up on a major public health crisis.”
“The proof is in the numbers: a countrywide drop in antibiotic use, restored antimicrobial sensitivity, and better animal welfare alongside production. AMR is a real threat and must be tackled now.”
The VPC network’s mix of training, peer support, and data-driven prescribing is setting the gold standard in veterinary antibiotic stewardship not just for Wales, but nationwide.
