A support worker at a Helensburgh veterinary clinic has won a prestigious national award.
Laura Cameron of Lomond Veterinary Clinic was awarded the prestigious title of Support Staff of the Year at the 2023 Petplan Veterinary Awards.
Announced last week at a glittering ceremony in Manchester, the winners were revealed by actress, comedian and dog lover, Sally Phillips.
Now in its 24th year, Petplan received over 30,000 nominations from veterinary practice clients and colleagues – a credit to the number of dedicated and hardworking veterinary professionals across the UK.
Flying the flag for Helensburgh having been awarded the title, Laura said: “It’s unbelievable to have won. I’m in shock and can’t actually put into words, which makes a change for me.
“I think it’s amazing especially for a small practice like ours – we’ve only got a very small tight-knit team and it’s great because I couldn’t be here without them so this is a reflection on everybody.
“I love the variety of my job – I love the variety of being able to feel like you’ve made a difference – you’ve helped somebody, you’ve helped them feel a bit better whether it’s calming their nerves or just preparing them for what’s to come.”
Presidents of prestigious veterinary associations made up the awards’ expert panel of judges, as well as 2022’s winner in the same category.
The judging criteria was based on providing exceptional levels of care, outstanding expertise, going above and beyond the normal care of duty, outstanding professionalism and great interpersonal skills – all of which Laura was shown to have excelled in.
Commenting on the ceremony and winners, Petplan’s sales and marketing director, Bella von Mesterhazy said: “We enjoyed a fantastic celebration of outstanding veterinary professionals from across the UK last night, and, as ever, it’s been incredibly difficult for the judges to whittle down 30,000 nominations to just one winner for each of the five categories.
“All of the night’s winners are so deserving of the accolade, thanks to their true commitment to their profession, and like all those who sent in nominations, Petplan is incredibly grateful for the outstanding services provided by not only our winners, but veterinary professionals around the country.”
