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MMI invites mental health researchers to apply for grant programme
The new grant programme follows the conclusion of the Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Grant.
There are two grants available for mental health research.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ (RCVS') Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has invited mental health researchers to apply for grants through its new veterinary mental health research grant programme.

The programme, launched yesterday, includes two research grants intended for projects which will positively impact mental health in the veterinary sector.

The first research grant, the Discovery Grant, is for £5,000. This is targeted to postgraduate or early career researchers wishing to launch small scale studies.

Meanwhile, the Impact Grant, for £15,000, is for more established researchers developing medium-sized projects.

Applications for the grants must be focused on one of MMI’s strategic areas for focus in 2024/2025. This includes veterinary suicide, veterinary mental health and inclusion, and veterinary leadership.

The new veterinary mental health research grant programme follows the conclusion of RCVS’ Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Grant.

The Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Grant was launched in honour of a former RCVS Council member and mental health advocate who passed away in 2017. Since 2019, MMI has provided £120,000 in research grants to support veterinary mental health.

Although the new programme will no longer be known as the Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Grant, RCVS is keen to continue supporting those in the veterinary industry in its commitment to be a compassionate regulator.

In collaboration with British Veterinary Chronic Illness Support, RCVS conducted a Disability and Chronic Illness Survey. This revealed that 65.7 per cent of those who identified as having a mental health condition felt it impacted their life on a daily basis.

RCVS believes that this demonstrates a need for more research in the veterinary mental health research space.

Rapinder Newton, MMI lead, said: “We are looking for high quality research proposals that display relevance and originality; appropriateness, rigour and inclusiveness; feasibility; and potential for impact with clear outputs.

“Research has the power to create meaningful and long-term systemic change. So, as well as providing the initial funding for projects, we are keen to support our grant recipients throughout their entire research journeys, as far as is reasonable.

“Having the right support plays a key part in amplifying impact, so, whether that be through supporting with recruitment, producing press and media assets, providing insight into the veterinary professions, or general research dissemination, we aim to be a supportive funder.”

The deadline for applications is Monday, 7 October 2024. More information, and an application form, can be found here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.