A campaign group from Berwick-upon-Tweed has sent an appeal to our team for an independent practice to open up in their area.
The town, in Northumberland, is currently served by just one veterinary practice, which is owned by one of the ‘Big 6’ corporate groups. The limitations of this practice and the lack of choice in the area has prompted many residents to form a campaign group for a new independent practice to open in the area.
Currently, its nearest independent veterinary practice is over an hour away.
The group says that the corporate-owned practice’s extortionate price structure is making it difficult for pet owners in the area. They tell us that a local rescue centre is receiving so many surrendered animals that it is forced to turn them away.
Berwick-upon-Tweed is a historic countryside town, located close to the Scottish border and near to the North Sea. It includes a number of shops, a sports centre and a golf course that serve the local community.
Residents believe there is also a large premises which could be ideal for a new veterinary practice. With 26,000 people living in Berwick-upon-Tweed, and many more willing to travel from outside the town, the group says any new independent practice will be warmly welcomed into the community.
The community is desperate for an independent practice to open in the town, which will prioritise the needs of its clients and wellbeing of its patients ahead of any additional profit.
Rita has already been in contact with one resident who contacted FIVP for support. We have listened to their story and hope that an FIVP member will be able to make the difference for the people of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Are you inspired to open your own independent practice? Could you provide a different option for people in Berwick-upon-Tweed and the surrounding area? Get in touch with the FIVP team to see how we can help!
