Mastering Civility, Human Factors and Resilience at BSAVA Congress and Expo 2025
18 February 2025
The Personal Development sessions at this year’s BSAVA Congress and Expo are set for a transformative three-days, taking a deep dive into topics such as civility in practice, Human Factors, practical tools for resilience, and how to master difficult conversations with clients.
Helen Silver-MacMahon RVN, Co-Founder and Director of Being Human Consulting Limited, will start day one (Thursday 20th March) of Congress and Expo with a scenario-based workshop on civility in practice. Delegates will explore some of the challenges to civility that are frequently encountered in practice, and will be encouraged to share their experiences, ideas and solutions, leaving the workshop with more confidence and a clearer understanding of how to practically apply a variety of techniques in practice.
Speaking on day two (Friday 21st March), Helen’s next session will focus on Human Factors, a scientific discipline that looks at understanding the body, mind, and behaviour, and truly understanding human’s capabilities and limitations. Human Factors is something that’s fundamental in safety critical industries like the veterinary profession, it ensures high levels of performance, which translates to better patient safety and therefore better outcomes for our patients.
Also speaking as part of the Personal Development module is Dr Marie Holowaychuk, Founder of Reviving Veterinary Medicine. Marie will be running sessions on how to master difficult conversations alongside Katie Ford, Co-Founder of Vet Empowered, and practical tools for the real world when it comes to resilience. Marie’s sessions aim to give delegates the tools they need to communicate effectively with clients and navigate difficult conversations with confidence. These sessions will also focus on the importance of prioritising self-care and mental health, leaving delegates feeling inspired to cultivate resilience and create a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.
Speaking about her sessions at Congress and Expo, Dr Marie Holowaychuk said: “My journey through the highs and lows of veterinary practice, including moments of triumph, heartbreak, and burnout, has taught me that resilience is not about enduring without pause, but about recognising when to seek help, set boundaries, and recharge. This lived experience informs the strategies that I’ll be sharing at Congress and Expo.”
Helen Silver-MacMahon continued: “The main takeaways for delegates at both of my sessions will be practical tools to improve patient safety, and a greater understanding of how we can enhance team dynamics and well-being. I hope that they will be inspired to consider the small changes that they can make to improve their day-to-day work.”
Helen and Marie’s sessions will take place as part of the Personal Development module at BSAVA Congress and Expo 2025, Manchester Central, 20th-22nd March. View the full programme: https://www.bsavacongress.com/programme.