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RSPCA chief steps down with immediate effect
Image Gavin Grant
Gavin Grant, former chief executive of the RSPCA.
Gavin Grant leaves his post amid health concerns

The RSPCA has announced its chief executive Gavin Grant has stepped down with immediate effect due to health concerns.

After two years in his role, the charity has credited him with "raising the profile of the society" and "laying the foundations for its long term future development."

Mr Grant commented: "It has been a huge honour to have held this post. The RSPCA is a magnificent organisation at the heart of what is the very best in humanity.

"The society is blessed with great people, both paid and volunteer. I wish it well as it continues to face huge challenges in ensuring it is ever stronger and able to meet the needs of our fellow creatures."

Mr Grant's two-year tenure with the charity has been one of the most turbulent periods in the RSPCA's long history, with negative publicity and a string of controversial prosecutions.

Many have criticised the high cost of private prosecutions brought by the charity, in particular the £326,000 spent on the Heythrop hunt prosecution in 2012.

Stephen Wooler, former HM chief inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service was appointed by the charity to conduct an independent review of its prosecutions.

The Telegraph has reported that the charity may be stripped of its prosecution rights or scrutinised by an independent watchdog following the review.

Commenting on Mr Grant's departure, chair of trustees Mike Tomlinson said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gavin on behalf of myself and my fellow trustees for the very significant contribution he has made to the Society for a second time in his career.

"His drive, passion and deep love and respect for animals have impressed all that have come into contact with him.

"I would like to assure everyone that our day to day work for animals continues as usual."

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.