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Tax implications of staff parties
Xmas dinner
Generally, if the cost of the function is less than £150 per head, there will not be any tax implications for the employee.
Working out the tax consequences of the Christmas party

As the festive season approaches, it is worth considering the tax implications of Christmas parties for staff at your practice.

On the whole, the cost of staff parties are allowable against the profits of the business, but in some circumstances there may be tax consequences for the employees themselves.

Generally there will be no tax implications for the employee, assuming the total cost of all employee functions in the tax year are less than £150 per head (including VAT).

When you calculate the cost per head, divide the total cost of each function by the number of people who attend. Be sure to include all costs - not just the meal - but also any drinks, entertainment, transport and accommodation you provide for attendees (including non-employees).

If the cost exceeds the £150 limit, then the full cost will be taxable on the employee.

For further information, visit the HMRC website.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.