Support Scheme for Recent Graduates Launched
21 March 2007
A new support scheme for recent graduates has been launched by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and its divisions.
The initiative has been developed in response to concerns raised by recent graduates over the often stressful transition from veterinary school to working life and will involve divisional meetings run by trained veterinary facilitators. The main aim of the informal meetings is to provide a forum where new graduates can share their concerns and experiences as well as establishing links with other vets in their area.
Open to both members and non-BVA members, the regional support meetings are free for recent graduates and the RCVS has confirmed that they will attract CPD points.
Later in the year the BVA will also launch the Young Vet Network (YVN), to provide additional support and services for BVA members in their first eight years after graduation, including a graduate handbook, online advice and representation on BVA Council.
“We have great hopes” said BVA President David Catlow “that the Recent Graduate Support Scheme, coupled with the Young Vet Network, will provide an invaluable medium for newly qualified vets to seek advice and support during their early years.”
Notes for Editors
1. For further information contact the BVA Press Office on 020 7636 6541 or media@bva.co.uk.
2. The meetings are supported by the BVA, the Veterinary Benevolent Fund (VBF) and BVA divisions as well as considerable support received from practices.
3. BVA Divisional Secretaries aim to attempt to invite all recent graduates to give them the opportunity of attending a meeting. Meetings will also be publicised in The Veterinary Record, Off the Record, on this website and through direct e-mail alerts where possible.
4. Western Counties Veterinary Association meeting - 22 March
North Wales BVA young graduates meeting - 27 March
Eastern Counties Veterinary Society meeting - 26 April
For further information on these meetings contact Karin Johnson at karinj@bva.co.uk.