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The team at Vets for Pets Bearsden, a small animal practice in Glasgow, embarked on the journey to Great Workplaces accreditation to explore what they believed to be true: they work in a supportive and exceptional environment. Led by Practice Manager Gemma Lamont, the leadership team recognised the importance of creating a workplace where all 18 team members feel valued, listened to, and supported. Great Workplaces gave them the opportunity to celebrate and amplify this positive culture.

Why Vets for Pets Bearsden chose to participate

For Vets for Pets Bearsden, the team understood that while they already had a strong support network within the broader Vets for Pets group, they wanted to go further. The goal was to show their team that they were truly invested in their growth and wellbeing. The Great Workplaces accreditation offered a unique opportunity to do just that.

"Our people are at the heart of what we do," Gemma reflected. "This accreditation wasn’t just a formality - it was a way to reinforce that commitment and show our team that we care, that we’re listening, and that we’re invested in their future."

The Accreditation process – a personal touch

The Great Workplaces process is structured and straightforward, ensuring that both leadership and staff felt supported from start to finish. The initial tools and resources provided helped everyone at Vets for Pets Bearsden understand what to expect, making it easier for the whole team to engage with the process.

Feedback collected from surveys and interviews of team members and the management team provided a comprehensive view of the practice’s strengths and opportunities for improvement. One unique aspect of the accreditation process is the personal touch from the accreditor. After the formal survey and interviews, the accreditor personally called Gemma before the final report was issued, offering the opportunity to discuss the results and what they meant for the practice. This added a personal element to the process, making it feel more connected and collaborative.

When the report arrived, it provided a clear roadmap for the team to digest and action. The follow-up meeting with the accreditor was pivotal in helping the leadership team at Vets for Pets Bearsden make sense of the data, guiding them on how to implement meaningful changes based on the insights.

"The personal touch made a huge difference," Gemma noted. "It didn’t feel like just a report being handed over, it was a collaborative effort to help us understand and improve."

Key takeaways – tools for continuous growth

The Great Workplaces accreditation gave Vets for Pets Bearsden clear, actionable guidance for improvement, highlighting both their successes and areas for development. Some quick wins, such as enhancing communication and improving the organisation of breaks, could be implemented relatively quickly, while more strategic changes, like cultural shifts and continuing their work around pay transparency, required a more deliberate approach.

One suggestion from their report was to introduce a representative from each team in the sub-team meetings, helping to improve communication and collaboration across the practice. The team was encouraged to trial this approach and review its effectiveness after a set period, ensuring it met the needs of all involved.

"This process gave us clarity," Gemma explained. "It showed us not only what we’re doing well but where we need to focus our energy going forward. It’s not just about getting accredited; it’s about using this feedback to evolve and grow."

By actively addressing these areas, the team felt empowered to make meaningful changes that would foster a more supportive and collaborative work environment, with a commitment to continuous growth.

Advice for other practices

Initially, there was some apprehension, particularly around the potential for uncovering uncomfortable truths. But after completing the process, Gemma’s advice for other practices is simple: don’t hesitate. The process offers a safe, supportive space for open and honest feedback. Having an external facilitator ensures an unbiased perspective, which can be invaluable for creating an environment where all staff feel truly heard.

"There’s immense value in this accreditation," Gemma added. "You learn so much about your team and your practice. It’s one of the best things you can do for your workplace."

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