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Vets step up for scrapheap challenge
"Scrapheap challenge was just one of the many engaging activities that took place over the two-day event last month" - XLVets.

XLVets AGM saw delegates create a 100m-long moveable structure.

More than 80 vets and industry professionals participated in a scrapheap challenge at the recent XLVets annual general meeting (AGM).

Taking place over two days in June, the AGM saw delegates create a 100m-long moveable structure using only what content they could scavenge from the scrap heap. There were also interactive discussions, guest speakers, workshops, karaoke, a beer festival and a pub quiz.

The AGM also provided the backdrop for the launch of THRIVE – XLVets’ new strategic plan. Thrive stands for - Trusting teams, Humanity, Regeneration, Insights, Vet skills and Explore and is designed to support members as the future of veterinary evolves.

Furthermore, a breakout workshop focussing on ‘Regeneration’ included conversations regarding the ongoing work of the XLVets Flexible Working Project with Alice Moore of Garston Vets and Silvia Janska from Flexee.

An XLVets spokesperson said: "Scrapheap challenge was just one of the many engaging activities that took place over the two-day event last month as XLVets broke down the normal expectations of a formal gathering. 

"Without sacrificing quality discussions on relevant topics such as employee ownership trusts and procurement, the AGM was an exciting experience for all who attended. Mirroring the XLVets' values of celebrating individuality and welcoming diversity, everyone had a voice in interactive discussions and workshops."

XLVets chief executive, Andrew Curwen, added: “We continue to welcome new practices, both start-up and established, into our community. Working together delivers success and enjoyment and if you embrace this collaboration, it will embrace you back.”

XLVets is a community of independent practices, enabling members to collaborate with shared knowledge, experience and skills. 

Image (C) XLVets.

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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.

 

Click here for more...
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.