AHPR Reinforces Leadership Role In Legislative Reform Following Defra Consultation On VSA
1 week ago 
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The Animal Health Professions’ Register (AHPR) has reaffirmed its position as a leading voice for musculoskeletal (MSK) practitioners in shaping future legislation, following the close of Defra’s consultation on Veterinary Surgeons Act (VSA) reform last week.
AHPR has been actively engaged with DEFRA ahead of and throughout the consultation, highlighting the opportunity to establish a modern regulatory framework that reflects the full veterinary team, including Allied Veterinary Professionals (AVPs). Central to its position is the need for AVPs to be included from the outset, supported by proportionate regulation and clearly defined scopes of practice.
In its submission, AHPR has called for a future-proof approach that supports clinical autonomy to those appropriately qualified and clear protected titles. They have also highlighted their desire for fair representation for MSK practitioners within any new governance structure, and for a broad enabling definition of ‘veterinary acts’ that allows AVP scopes of practice to be defined in legislation.
Chair of AHPR, Alexandra Crosby-Jones, says “The close of the Defra consultation is a significant milestone for the professions we represent. It is important that any future framework reflects how AVPs work in practice, while maintaining appropriate standards of care. Our role is to ensure that practitioner perspectives are clearly represented.”
Alexandra continues, “Protected titles are central to improving public clarity and safeguarding standards. Reserving titles such as Veterinary Physiotherapist, Veterinary Chiropractor, Veterinary Osteopath, and Veterinary MSK Practitioner for those who meet the required standards will prevent misuse, support informed decision making by animal owners, and strengthen referral pathways between vets and MSK practitioners.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to represent its members, AHPR has drawn on insights from its 2025 industry survey, ensuring practitioner perspectives continue to inform current discussions around regulation and legislative change.
The survey, which received 335 responses from AHPR members, highlights strong support for structured regulation, with 86.2% in favour of formal oversight and 89.5% supporting inclusion within veterinary legislation. It also reinforces the importance of professional identity, with 67.7% favouring veterinary-prefix titles and 62% considering clear title distinctions very important.
Alexandra explains, “There is clear support for regulation, but it must be proportionate and workable. As discussions move forward, it will be important that any legislative approach reflects both professional standards and the realities of practice.”
AHPR remains committed to working with Defra and industry stakeholders as discussions progress, helping to shape a regulatory model that supports practitioners, protects titles and enhances animal welfare.
To find out more about AHPR please visit Animal Health Professions' Register or contact [email protected]
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