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Approximately 1 evening shift per month and 1 weekend day shift every 6 weeks, shared across Victoria, Merton, and Hammersmith sites. Compensation via time in lieu.
About the Role
Blue Cross is seeking experienced Veterinary Surgeons to join their London practice, where your work will directly improve the lives of vulnerable animals and their owners. This permanent position operates on a primarily Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm schedule—a rarity in veterinary medicine—with additional out-of-hours cover shared across three sites (Victoria, Merton, and Hammersmith) on a relaxed rota of approximately one evening shift per month and one weekend day every six weeks, compensated by time in lieu.
You'll be exposed to diverse medical, surgical, and emergency cases, rapidly building confidence and clinical depth beyond typical first-opinion practice. The role reports to a Senior Veterinary Surgeon and offers genuine mentorship from vets holding specialist certificates and postgraduate qualifications who actively share their expertise.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality small animal medical and surgical care across two primary locations (Merton and Hammersmith)
- Manage emergency presentations and complex cases with access to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic equipment
- Contribute to evening and weekend out-of-hours rotas shared with colleagues at multiple Blue Cross sites
- Engage in regular clinical governance discussions and apply award-winning clinical guidelines to decision-making
- Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to maintain compassionate, evidence-based patient care
- Participate in ongoing clinical development alongside mentoring colleagues
Requirements
- Full registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
- Demonstrated experience in small animal or mixed practice
- Proven sole charge experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
- Alignment with Blue Cross values: compassion, courage, and inclusivity
- Pragmatic approach to clinical decision-making with a genuine commitment to patient welfare
Benefits
- Leave & Wellbeing: 38 days holiday annually, rising to 43 with service (including bank holidays); comprehensive physical and mental health support programmes
- Financial & Security: £41,080–£55,640 per annum plus £3,954 London Weighting Allowance; pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution; life assurance
- Professional Development: Professional fees covered; Continuing Professional Development and personal development support
- Healthcare: Free 24/7 GP access via MetLife (private prescriptions included); health cash plan; unlimited employee assistance programme access
- Family-Friendly Policies: Enhanced parental and flexible working options
- Additional Perks: 20% Pet Plan pet insurance discount; annual volunteer days; charity worker discounts; employee recognition scheme
About the Practice
Blue Cross is a long-established animal welfare charity dedicated to ensuring veterinary care reaches those who need it most, regardless of circumstance. Operating across multiple London sites (Victoria, Merton, and Hammersmith), the organisation delivers compassionate care far beyond first-opinion scope, supported by advanced facilities including digital X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, multiparameter anaesthetic monitors, and infusion pumps.
The practice maintains a culture of clinical excellence grounded in learning and psychological safety. Award-winning clinical guidelines support pragmatic decision-making, and regular governance discussions foster open reflection in a non-judgmental environment. Many team members hold specialist qualifications and actively mentor colleagues, creating a supportive space for professional growth.
