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VN Council rejects proposals to add post-nominals to the register
certificates
VN Council members raised concerns that adding post-nominals could be confusing to the public.
Calls for the profession to focus on RVN to avoid confusion

‘Keep it simple’ was the call yesterday from members of the Veterinary Nurses Council, as they debated whether to allow additional post-nominals on the register of veterinary nurses.

At the February 3 council meeting, members planned to consider adding more post-nominals, other than RVN and DipAVN, onto the register. However, some members argued in favour of removing the DipAVN, so that only RVN is displayed.

Liz Branscombe raised concerns that adding post-nominals at a time when the profession is trying to promote the title RVN, could be ‘very confusing’ to the public. She also said she would be happy for the DipAVN not to be displayed.

Sue Proctor agreed: ‘I think RVN is crystal clear', adding, ‘If we keep DipAVN, how can we exclude other degrees and diplomas?’

In the paper put forward by Julie Dugmore, it was proposed that only qualifications at level four or above would be displayed on the register of veterinary nurses, meaning post-nominals for vocationally trained nurses would not have been included.

During the debate, caution was urged by RCVS registrar Gorden Hockey, who raised concerns about removing the DipAVN and then having to add it back in again at a later date. ‘Sometimes it is reasonable to make no change at all,’ he said.

Last year’s proposal to remove post-nominals other than MRCVS and registrable degrees from the register of veterinary surgeons was met with significant consternation among the profession and prompted an online petition. The decision was later overturned.

Speaking at the VN Council meeting today, former RCVS president Neil Smith proposed that RVN and DipAVN continue to be displayed on the register and suggested an advanced register be developed, which would recognise nurses’ other post-nominals.

This was agreed by council members and a working party to review the DipAVN will incorporate these proposals. 

 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.