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

Vet professionals invited to self-compassion webinar
The course has been shown to reduce self-criticism and reumination.
The session will look at a compassion-focused therapy intervention.

Veterinary professionals are being invited to attend a free online webinar on self-compassion from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ (RCVS’) Mind Matters Initiative (MMI).

The session, which will take place from 7-8pm on 3 September 2024, will be hosted by Katherine Wakelin, a clinical psychologist, with support from Sarah Corthorne, a trainee clinical psychologist.

Dr Wakelin is a previous recipient of an MMI research grant and the webinar will draw on research into self-compassion carried out by her and Ms Corthorne.

Their research has seen them conduct a randomised control trial looking at the effectiveness of an online compassion-focused therapy (CFT) course. The intervention was designed to reduce perfectionism and self-criticism and increase self-compassion among veterinary professionals.

During the webinar, the researchers will go into more detail about the course and the science behind it. There will also be the opportunity for delegates to ask the researchers any questions they may have.

The CFT course will be made available for free on the MMI website and on the RCVS YouTube channel.

Dr Wakelin, said: “Our recent randomised control trial has shown the course to significantly improve resilience and self-compassion and reduce rumination and self-criticism amongst veterinarians. Therefore, Sarah and I are delighted to now be disseminating the CFT course freely to the veterinary professions, so that as many people are able to benefit from the evidence-based resource as possible.

“Even though our research was conducted on veterinary surgeons, we hope that the course will be useful to all those working in the veterinary team as the content can be applied in a number of contexts.”

Those wishing to attend can sign up on the MMI website.

Image © Shutterstock

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.