Happy New Year to you all from the team at The Links Group. We hope that 2026 has started well for you and yours, and we look forward to sharing news of our work with you in this our 25th anniversary year. We have lots planned, so sign up to our free quarterly newsletter (spam-free too!) to help you keep up to date with what we’ve been doing and what’s coming up.
Our British Small Animal Veterinary Association-supported Links Group multi-agency training days continue throughout BSAVA’s regional network, with 2 events planned for early 2026. With a focus on One Health, One Welfare; emphasising professional curiosity and providing opportunities for mutual learning across the veterinary, animal welfare and human service professions, these day meetings are free for BSAVA members and capped at £50 inclusive of VAT to minimise barriers to learning for all.
In Northern Ireland, you can join us on 17 February, when we will be in The Dunadry Hotel, near Antrim. We’re still finalising the last few speakers, and those already confirmed include:
- Kerrie Flood, Interim CEO, Fermanagh Women’s Aid
- Ineke Houtenbos, Senior Training & Development Consultant, NSPCC
- Lindsay Fisher, Head of Public Protection Unit, PSNI
- Ryan Somerville, the Executive Office
- Lauren Suitor, Cats Protection Lifeline on behalf of the 4 accredited animal fostering services
- The Links Group speakers and trustees including Paula Boyden, Chair, David Martin, veterinary forensic expert witness/IVC Evidensia Animal Welfare Lead; Rebecca Stephens, Associate Professor Social Work.
In Scotland, we will be at Easter Bush Campus on 24 March, and speakers include:
- Scottish SPCA
- Paddi Vint, Development and Quality Manager, NSPCC Helpline, NSPCCÂ
- Jodie McVicar, Head of Training, Scottish Women’s Aid
- A/DCI Gary Sergeant, Domestic Abuse Coordination Unit, Police Scotland
- Natalie Ratcliffe, Lifeline, Cat Protection’s pet fostering service
- Dr. Ian Futter, private practitioner and veterinary professional witness
- Dr. Paula Boyden, The Links Group Chair
- Rebecca Stephens, Associate Professor Social Work, Uni. of Sussex, Links Group Trustee
For more information visit our training page, and booking is now open via the BSAVA Regional CPD pages for Northern Ireland and Scotland.Â
Spaces are limited, so book early to confirm your place. We look forward to welcoming you there!
