RCVS

Veterinary nursing is incredibly rewarding, yet often challenging, which is why supporting mental health and wellbeing is so important. This week, for Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM), we’re focusing on the importance of looking after ourselves and each other. The RCVS Academy offers a dedicated Culture and Wellbeing category, with free courses designed to support you and your team. You’ll also find an introduction to the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative within this category. All courses are free to access, simply log in with your MyRCVS credentials to start learning via the link in our bio. For any questions, reach out to us at [email protected] #VeterinaryNursingAwarenessMonth #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #RCVSAcademy

Suicide prevention plans are now a mandatory requirement for veterinary practices, following new Practice Standards Scheme requirements introduced from 1 April 2026, for all three practice types - small animal, equine and farm animal. To support practices, the RCVS Mind Matters and PSS Teams, alongside external experts have developed free and practical resources to help take the first steps towards putting together your suicide prevention plans. This Mental Health Awareness Week, explore the resources via our website, and free CPD on ‘Suicide awareness fundamentals’ via the RCVS Academy. Find out more at the link in bio. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek2026 #MindMattersInitiative #RCVSPSS #VeterinaryProfessions #SuicidePrevention #BS30480

Here’s what we’ve got coming up this May. From key dates in the calendar to workshops and live sessions, we’re covering topics across mental health, leadership and the future of the profession. Find out more and book your place via the link in our bio. #RCVSEvents

Awareness is important - but action is what creates change... This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re focusing on how research and evidence is being turned into practical tools, training and resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of the veterinary community. From evidence-based guidance to new workplace standards, RCVS Mind Matters is helping drive meaningful, lasting change. Explore the latest research, resources and CPD via the link in bio. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek2026 #MindMattersInitiative #VeterinaryProfessions

The RCVS ‘Academy Live’ sessions provide the opportunity to engage directly with subject matter experts, ask questions and share experiences with peers, making learning relevant and impactful. Each session complements existing and future Academy courses, supporting veterinary professionals in meeting their CPD goals. Upcoming sessions this month include: • Clinical Supervisor: Roles & Responsibilities 12 May, 1pm to 2pm For new Clinical Supervisors or those considering the role. • VetGDP Portfolio Preparation 13 May, 1pm to 2pm For vets completing VetGDP, particularly those approaching portfolio submission. VetGDP Advisers may also find this session useful. • VN Vision 19 May, 1pm to 2pm For the whole practice team: exploring how to integrate nurses more effectively into multidisciplinary teams, and why this matters for the future of veterinary care. • Clinical Supervisor: Tackling Tutorials 20 May, 1pm to 2pm For current or prospective Clinical Supervisors. • VetGDP Portfolio Preparation 21 May, 1pm to 2pm A second opportunity for vets completing VetGDP and preparing to submit their portfolio. For on-demand learning across a wide range of topics, log in to the RCVS Academy with your RCVS My Account details. Academy Live and online Academy courses can be recorded on the 1CPD platform and contribute to your annual CPD requirement. For on-demand learning across a wide range of topics, visit the RCVS Academy via the link in our bio, using your ‘My Account’ details to log in. Academy Live and online Academy courses can be recorded on the 1CPD platform and contribute to your annual CPD requirement. To register for an Academy Live session, visit the events page via the link in our bio. If you have any questions about the Academy or the live sessions, please email the Academy Team: [email protected]. #RCVSAcademy

Veterinary nurses are essential to animal care. Yesterday, we celebrated those joining and rejoining the Register at Veterinary Nurses Day in Edinburgh - a milestone marking the next step in their professional journey. From newly qualified and returning professionals to those achieving advanced qualifications, including CertAVN, each one plays a vital role in practice. During #VeterinaryNursingAwarenessMonth, we’re proud to recognise the skill, dedication and impact of veterinary nurses across the profession. #VNDay #RCVSEvents #VNRegistration #RCVSVetNurses

It’s Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM) Throughout May, we’re celebrating the British Veterinary Nursing Association’s campaign! This year’s theme, ‘Compassion and Empathy’, highlights the dedication and passion required to train and practise as a veterinary nurse. Compassion shaped the creation of the RCVS Academy to better support veterinary teams. For the first week of VNAM, we are highlighting two of our SVN courses: • SVN: RCVS & me – helping SVNs understand their professional responsibilities • SVN: Stepping into practice – supporting SVNs’ transition into clinical practice These courses are free to access via the link in our bio. For any questions, reach out to us at [email protected]. #RCVSAcademy #VNStudents #RCVSVetNurses

We’ve published new advice on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in practice, alongside updated guidance on clinical and client records. Key points include: • Professional judgement must not be delegated to AI • Veterinary professionals remain responsible for decisions • Clinical and client records should be clear, accurate and appropriately detailed The updated guidance focuses on supporting safe, informed practice while remaining flexible as technology evolves. Read the full update via the link in our bio! #RCVSUpdates #StandardsandAdvice

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - and who can it affect? PTSD can develop after experiencing or being exposed to traumatic events. While it’s often associated with extreme situations, trauma is more common than many people realise. Read our guide “Let’s talk post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)” via the link in our bio This post is part of our Stress Awareness Month series, where we’re exploring key aspects of stress and mental health in the veterinary workplace. #StressAwarenessMonth #MindMatters #VetWellbeing #VeterinaryLife #WellbeingAtWork

Starting in clinical practice as a student veterinary nurse (SVN) is an exciting milestone in your training, whether you are working as an employed SVN or you’re stepping into practice for the first time on your clinical placement. The RCVS Academy is pleased to launch our new course, ‘SVN: Stepping into practice.’ Designed for SVNs, this course equips you with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive during your time in practice and beyond. You’ll discover how clinical training connects your theoretical learning to real-world veterinary work, forming an essential part of your journey toward qualification. By the end of this one-hour course, you’ll feel prepared, supported, and ready to contribute meaningfully to the veterinary team. SVN: Stepping into practice is free to access for all student veterinary nurses. Access the RCVS Academy via the link in our bio, using your ‘MyRCVS’ login details, provided to you when registering with the RCVS. For any questions, reach out to us at [email protected]. #RCVSAcademy #VNStudents

Behind every registration is a story... This World Veterinary Day, we’re celebrating veterinary professionals from around the world who have built their careers in the UK. 🌍 Each story is one of resilience, determination, and a shared passion for veterinary medicine. #WorldVeterinaryDay #RCVS #RCVSUpdates #VeterinaryCareers

Civility plays a key role in creating positive, supportive veterinary workplaces. Our Civility fundamentals course explores the value of workplace civility and the impact of incivility on others and patient safety. This Stress Awareness Month, consider how workplace culture shapes stress and wellbeing across your team. Explore the course via the link in our bio. #StressAwarenessMonth #RCVSAcademy