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Applications open for MMI research grant
"I would encourage anyone with a mental health research idea to apply for the funding" - Lisa Quigley.

The winning application will be announced the week commencing 13 June. 

Funding applications have opened for the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative's (MMI) Sarah Brown Research Grant, and will close on Friday 20 May 2022 at 5pm.

Set up in memory of RVCS Council member and mental health campaigner Sarah Brown, the £20,000 grant has been awarded annually since 2019.

The grant has funded research projects on topics including neurodiversity in the profession, wellbeing among isolated farm vets, the impact of racism on mental health, and the impact of moral injury on wellbeing. 

Applications on any area of veterinary mental health are welcomed, however the MMI has said that particular interest will be shown to projects covering its key focus areas for 2022-27, which include students and new graduates, the veterinary nursing profession, beyond mental health awareness, leadership, and equality, diversity, inclusion and civility. 

Mind Matters Initiative manager, Lisa Quigley, said: “We’re delighted to launch the Sarah Brown Research Grant funding applications for 2022. The grant is now in its fourth year and has been awarded in previous years to some incredible research projects, which have been led by passionate and talented researchers.

“I would encourage anyone with a mental health research idea, including students and those who are just starting out in their research careers to apply for the funding, as we will be judging applications based on their quality, originality and relevance to the profession rather than how much research experience the applicants have. 

“Applications will be anonymised, so the judging panel won’t be able to see the applicant’s affiliations, prior publications or professional seniority.”

Further information on how to apply and support for putting together an application can be found here

Image (C) Mind Matters Initiative

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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
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.