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Mind Matters Campfire Chats return for fifth series
The sessions are open for any member of the veterinary profession.
The initiative invites vet professionals to discuss mental health issues.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has announced the return of their Campfire Chats for its fifth series.

The online sessions relaunch on 13 December with a webinar discussing ‘Self-care through Winter’, which will see a panel including Vetlife president James Russell discussing mental health during the winter months.

MMI first launched their Mind Matters Campfire Chats in 2021. The chats invite veterinary professionals to attend virtual, informal panel discussions which explore topics relating to veterinary mental health and wellbeing.

The sessions are open for any member of the veterinary profession, including surgeons, nurses, students, practice managers and receptionists.

This year’s Campfire Chats will also be recorded, so that those who are unable to attend the sessions live will be able to listen to them afterwards on the MMI website. The following Q and A section will not be recorded, to provide a safe space for those who wish to voice their thoughts on the topic.

The MMI hopes that the series will enable those working in the veterinary industry to pause, reflect and learn from each other.

Angharad Belcher, advancement of the professions and Mind Matters director, said: “We are really looking forward to bringing back our Campfire Chats, which offer a safe space for the veterinary community to come together for informal discussions on some of the issues impacting mental health and wellbeing.

“We have a brilliant panel lined up for the first session of the series and are keen to get as many people involved in the discussion as possible – however, if you simply want to grab a cup of tea and listen in to the discussion, you are absolutely welcome to do so.”

The sessions are designed to provide an informal space for veterinary professionals to discuss mental health, but does not replace professional or clinical advice. Veterinary professionals who are experiencing mental health challenges should contact Vetlife, the Samaritans or the NHS.

The first session, ‘Self-care through Winter’, takes place on Wednesday 13 December from 7.00pm-7.30pm. This is followed by ‘Managing Anxiety 101’, which is on Wednesday 24 January from 7.00pm-8.00pm.

To book a place in the first session, visit the MMI events page. Booking for ‘Managing Anxiety 101’ will become available in due course.

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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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.

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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.