Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Views sought on Mind Matters strategy
The MMI aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in the veterinary team.

The initiative is deciding what areas of veterinary mental health and wellbeing to prioritise.

Views are being sought from veterinary professionals on how key areas of the Mind Matters Initiative five-year strategy are developed.

Launched in 2015, the RCVS-run Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) aims to improve the wellbeing and mental health of all those in the veterinary team, including veterinary nurses, veterinary students, veterinary surgeons and practice managers.

Through surveys and discussions at MMI events, the organisation is currently deciding what areas of veterinary mental health and wellbeing to prioritise over the next five years.

The key areas of strategy are research, leadership, beyond mental health awareness, the veterinary nursing profession, students and new graduates, and equality, diversity, inclusion and civility. Members of the profession are now being urged to have their say by taking part in a short survey.

“Our aim for this survey is to give survey participants a chance to have their say into how we develop the key areas of our new strategy,” commented Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Initiative Manager. “MMI is for everyone working across the veterinary professions, and we want to know what each of our key themes for 2022 - 2027 means to individual members, to help us to make sure everyone’s voice is represented.”

Participants will be asked questions about how they would like the MMI to communicate about new events, training and announcements. They will also be able to suggest ideas for themes or areas of veterinary mental health that they would like to see in the new strategy.

The survey can be accessed via the Mind Matters website and will remain open until 28 February 2022.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.