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New Practice Standards Scheme launches
Jacqui Molyneux
The RCVS say that the awards focus on behaviours and other factors that impact the veterinary care of animals, the practice team, and the client experience.

RCVS announce prize draw for 20 free assessments
 
The new RCVS Practice Standards Scheme (PSS) was launched this morning (20 November) at the London Vet Show.

Speaking to a packed business theatre, PSS group chair Jacqui Molyneux gave delegates an overview of the new scheme and highlighted some of its key features and benefits.

An online administration and support system called Stanley has been developed to speed up the accreditation process.  As well as providing step-by-step guidance on the Scheme's requirements, Stanley also provides a document storage facility, a reminder service for appointments and a self-assessment tool to mark progress.

The new scheme will also provide a flexible, modular structure for all types of practice. The accreditation levels remain as Core Standards, General Practice, Veterinary Hospital and Emergency Services Clinics, with criteria based on the services the practice provides as well as facilities and equipment.

A new accreditation level, Equine General Practice, has been introduced for those practices without premises. The standards are presented in a modular format which will help practices know exactly what requirements must be met, in what areas, and at what accreditation level.

Practices will be able to apply for a range of optional awards to demonstrate the areas in which their practice excels. The RCVS say that the awards focus on behaviours and other factors that impact the veterinary care of animals, the practice team, and the client experience.

A new team of PSS assessors have been employed by the Council to carry out the accreditation/award assessments. From now on, assessors will focus on behaviours and outcomes in practice, rather than just facilities and equipment. They will also offer guidance to help practices improve.

Practices who are already registered with the old PSS Scheme have automatically been transferred to the new Scheme and are invited to apply for new accreditations and awards.

Free assessments are available for 20 practices in return for assisting the RCVS with advanced trials. The draw will be held on December 7 and unsuccessful practices will be offered advanced access to Stanley.

For more information about the scheme visit www.rcvs.org.uk/newpss

Image courtesy of the RCVS

 

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.