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Let’s talk about depression
The rate of suicide in the veterinary profession is almost four times greater than among medical doctors.

'All in the Mind' explores suicide in the veterinary profession

“Within the veterinary profession we have very much a ‘can do’ attitude to things. We are used to fixing problems ourselves and not seeking help with them, and I guess that’s one of the reasons I didn’t seek help at the early stage.” 

Those were the words of vet Richard Hillman speaking to presenter Claudia Hammond on BBC Radio 4 on Wednesday (18 May). The ‘All in the Mind’ programme discussed the startling rate of suicide in the veterinary profession, which is almost four times greater than among medical doctors. This alarming figure came to light in research back in 2004 and steps have been undertaken to address it, yet the exact reason are still unclear.

To continue reading please visit vetcommunity.com.

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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.