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Key issues discussed at dairy forum

Strategy papers presented to industry members

Animal health and welfare, knowledge exchange and research and development were the key issues at a recent Dairy Science Forum (DSF).

The object of the event was to look at ways to help protect the future competitiveness and sustainability of the dairy farming industry.

Guests from throughout the dairy sector were invited to attend the event, which was held at Porthcullis House in Westminster and hosted by MP Rory Stewart.

Three strategy papers were presented and followed up with group discussions. Guests were then given the opportunity to put forward suggestions.

Overall, there was a great deal of consensus on the key points.

David Black, DSF chairman, said: "We aimed to help align the thinking throughout the dairy industry by producing these strategy papers and identifying what we saw as the key issues."

He added that the basis of animal welfare is to address the needs of the animals themselves so that they are healthy and productive.

"We are in a position to empower farmers and advisers with the information they need and give access to evidence-based science so that the UK industry becomes ever more vibrant and competitive in world markets."

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.