Without a doubt, these are challenging times for our sector; at the start of the year, the industry was bracing itself for what would happen at the end of the transition period…and then COVID-19 raised its ugly head on our shores. I’ve written many times in OvertheCounter of how proud I am of SQPs and I am delighted at how businesses and individuals responded to the pandemic. As essential workers, you were at the coalface, and with investments in signage and PPE, you served your customers well. Over the last three years, I’ve met many SQPs and the passion you have for your work is fantastic to see and it was encouraging to read in the entries for this year’s National SQP Awards that more and more SQPs are working with local vets, to provide a joined-up approach to their customers. This is great news and I would encourage more SQPs to speak to their vets to see if there is a way that you could work together. This was the fourth National SQP Awards and I am delighted that they have quickly been established as the industry awards for the UK’s hardworking and dedicated SQPs. SQPs regularly go the extra mile for their customers, displaying compassion for the animals they help care for, and drive to improve the businesses in which you work. I am delighted that we have recognised and rewarded excellence in our sector. Congrlations to all our finalists and winners, you are a credit to the industry.

Simon King, Editor of OvertheCounter
2020 winners

National SQP OF THE YEAR

Laura Smith from Vale Veterinary Group in Cullompton

Judges were very impressed by the added-value that Laura is bringing to her practice, really demonstrating the benefit that an SQP can provide within veterinary practices. Of particular note is her work on promoting vaccine best practice for her farm clients and working with companion animal owners, helping them to understand the importance of preventative measures.

Companion Animal SQP of the Year

Cerrie Hedges from TFM Country Store in Whisbys

Cerrie has demonstrated her commitment to companion animal health and welfare by taking account of many aspects of her clients concerns, whether its dogs, cats or equine. Undertaking a number of additional training courses has helped her develop new expertise, and her understanding of the importance of preventative companion animal health particularly impressed the judges. 

Farm SQP of the Year

Stefanie Willey from Mole Country Stores in Hexham

As manager of Mole Country Stores, Hexham, Stefanie Willey is an integral part of the community. She has forged relationships with customers, meaning that she is the go-to person for help and advice with their animals. She listens and takes time to consider the bigger picture, and then ensures that clients adopt the correct technical approach to resolve their problem. 

MASTERMIND AWARD

Charlotte Forkes-Rees from Mole Country Stores in Berkeley

In just 18 months, Charlotte has become an SQP, picked up a National SQP Award and become a Gold Standard SQP. She is passionate about her role and her commitment to ongoing learning is a shining example for future SQPs. 

Newly qualified SQP of the Year

Jane Moorhouse from Hird and Partners in Halifax

Since becoming a qualified SQP Jane has put her training into practice, impressing the judges with her work with clients to promote diagnosis before treatment for parasites in order to help reduce resistance problems. Her commitment to delivering a quality service and the latest technical advice has enabled her to become a trusted advisor to both colleagues and clients. 

Nutritional Expertise Award

Sarah Sparke from J S Hubbuck in Hexham

Sarah shows real passion for the role, and is keen to use her knowledge to find the right solution for each customer and their animals. She also demonstrates a commitment to engaging with the customer, successfully treading the delicate balance between what the customer may think they want and what might bring the best benefits for the farm and the animals.  

Equine SQP OF THE YEAR

Charlotte Forkes-Rees from Mole Country Stores in Berkeley

Charlotte’s attention to detail and her very personal approach made her a worthy winner in this category. She recommends the routine use of faecal egg counting both pre and post worming as part of overall care, which the judges noted as key within this sector. 

Independent Store of the Year

Green’s Farm Supplies in Thirsk

Green’s Farm Supplies, under the ownership of Chris and Kate Jeffrey, has learnt that the most important criteria is offering good customer service. A well-known company in the community, Green’s customer service really helps it to stand out from the competition. 

Multiple store of the Year

Mole Country Stores in Hexham

This store has firmly established itself as a part of the community it serves. Stefanie and her team have strong relationships with customers, ensuring a good conversation and enabling the correct information to be obtained before a prescription medicine sale is made.  

Outstanding Customer Service Award

Kristy Hodgson from Westgate Labs in Morpeth

Kristy Hodgson delivers excellent customer service in the area of promoting best practice parasite control. The back-up service offered by Westgate Labs is critical to the success of targeted worming and Kristy is central to delivering this. 

 

Store manager of the year

Catherine Johnson from Carrs Billington in Hexham

Catherine Johnson has demonstrated a commitment to both staff and customers. She motivates and inspires staff and leads by example, priding herself on excellent customer service and going the extra mile for customers, which builds up loyalty to the store and, in turn, increases sales. 

Veterinary practice sqp of the year

Laura Smith from Vale Veterinary Group in Cullompton

Judges were very impressed by the added-value that Laura is bringing to her practice, really demonstrating the benefit that an SQP can provide within veterinary practices. Of particular note is her work on promoting vaccine best practice for her farm clients and working with companion animal owners, helping them to understand the importance of preventative measures.

Outstanding Contribution to the Industry

Carwyn Ellis

Carwyn has made over 35 years of contributions to the sector. He trained the very first candidates in 1985/86 and importantly helping manage the transition to a prescription-only model in 2005, after the launch of VMR 2005. He had a major influence and contribution to the introduction of an approved CPD program, bringing in the modular system of exams supporting the introduction of: the companion animal qualification, the vet nurse qualification, moving us to Level 5, along with many years’ service on the AMTRA Council. Carwyn has been pivotal in making the SQP / RAMA sector work and has the respect from all involved in this sector and government.

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