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RVNs could become PSS assessors
vn
Currently only veterinary surgeons can become assessors.
Nick Stace hints at change during council meeting
 
Veterinary nurses may be recruited as 'assessors' for the revamped Practice Standards Scheme (PSS), it emerged at a recent meeting of the VN Council.

RCVS chief executive Nick Stace said the council could push the college harder on this point, hinting that discussions could take place before the five-year review of the scheme.

The new scheme is set to launch at London Vet Show in November. Among numerous changes, 'assessors' have replaced the 'inspectors' of old.

In recruiting the new team of 18 assessors, Mr Stace said the college has "set a different culture" by appointing those with the right attitude - putting the emphasis on support, rather than bureaucracy.

Currently only veterinary surgeons can become assessors, though VN Council chair Liz Cox said she has previously called for this to be changed.

Speaking at the meeting in Telford, ahead of BVNA Congress, Liz pointed out that often nurses are in charge of organising scheme membership, yet they are not allowed to become assessors.

This was set for review after the new scheme had been in place for five years, but Mr Stace said during the meeting that it could happen before.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.