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Graduate Support Scheme

In this section members can read more about the BVA’s Graduate Support Scheme

Background

The BVA graduate support scheme was introduced to assist the transition from veterinary student to graduate and to help address the feelings of isolation so many graduates experience on entering practice.

The drop out rate and suicide levels among veterinary surgeons has given a clear indication that, in addition to the support offered by the Veterinary Benevolent Fund (VBF), there is a need for preventative support for graduates. The early years after graduation have been identified as a vulnerable time when individuals would most benefit from a support network.

The scheme provides this support face to face at a local level and takes the form of facilitated meetings at which recent graduates are encouraged to collectively find solutions to problems, both clinical and employment, which they encounter in practice.

The RCVS has confirmed that attendance at these BVA graduate support scheme meetings will attract CPD points.

Join in

The scheme is open to all graduates 8 years qualified or less. You do not have to be a member on BVA or your local division to take part.

Search for meetings or register for meeting notifications
Contact your local facilitator
Or you could consider arranging your own meetings. Start by downloading the facilitators’ handbook which offers guidance on how to organise a graduate meeting with advice on structure, publicity, discussion topics and sponsorship.