Training sessions planned on non-accidental injuries
Guidance will be given on how to respond when information about abuse is disclosed.
The Links Group and the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) will be hosting more sessions in their series of regional training days on how to recognise and act on non-accidental injuries and domestic abuse.
The training provides guidance on creating a practice protocol and identifying a practice links adviser who can develop relationships with local agencies to support the veterinary team when they suspect human or animal abuse. Attendees are also given advice on recording clinical notes and how to respond when someone discloses that they have been a victim of abuse.
The sessions are open to large, small and equine veterinary teams. Speakers at previous events have included experts from the NSPCC, Women’s Aid and NHS Integrated Care Boards.
All-day events will be held at the Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel in Nottingham on Tuesday, 18 April 2023 and at the Exeter Court Hotel in Exeter on Thursday, 29 June 2023.
Further sessions are planned for later this year and into next year, with exact dates and locations still to be confirmed.
Vicki Betton, vice-chair of The Links Group, said: “We’re thrilled to be rolling out our programme of in-person training days with BSAVA. Abuse of any vulnerable member of the family, human or animal, is a difficult subject for many to even consider, but with reported cases of domestic abuse reaching an all-time high during the pandemic, its essential that teams are aware of the issue and have a practice protocol in place for if they feel something isn’t quite right with a case.
“We’re looking forward to exploring the most effective ways veterinary teams can recognise and act on suspected cases of non-accidental injury or disclosures of domestic or child abuse.”
The training is free to BSAVA members. Non-members can also attend if they purchase a ticket. Places can be booked on the BSAVA website.
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
