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I want to raise a concern about a veterinary nurse

A very busy time

Veterinary practices up and down the country are facing a very busy time at the moment. There is a greater demand for their services following a national increase in pet ownership, and they are facing staff shortages due to both Brexit and the pandemic.

Because of this, it may be more difficult to book an appointment, you may have to wait longer to be seen, and your practice's out-of-hours emergency arrangements may have changed.

We recommend you check your practice's website for their most up-to-date information, or give them a call.

Your practice will be working hard to offer the best service they can, so do please be patient and understanding during this difficult time.

Raising a concern

Concerns about veterinary nurses (RVNs) can either be dealt with by the Veterinary Client Mediation Service (VCMS), the organisation responsible for administering our Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme, or with us.

The nature of your concern will determine which organisation can help you.

Concerns for the VCMS

VCMS can help you if your concern relates to: 

  • the service you have received from a veterinary practice
  • the fees you have been charged
  • negligence

VCMS may also be able to help you if you are seeking:

  • an apology
  • a refund
  • corrective/further treatment
  • a goodwill payment

If you think your concern is for VCMS, you can contact them directly using 0345 040 5834 or [email protected]. Please note that the VCMS scheme is voluntary; this means that the veterinary nurse must agree to VCMS’ involvement.

Email VCMS

Concerns for the RCVS

The RCVS can only deal with the most serious concerns that relate to a veterinary nurse's professional conduct. This includes:

  • Very poor professional performance where there are serious departures from the standards set out in the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct
  • Fraud or dishonesty
  • Criminal convictions or cautions
  • Physical or mental health problems affecting ability to work

If you think your concern is for us, or you’re not sure, please contact us on 020 7202 0789 or fill in our short enquiry form and we will contact you.

Complete enquiry form

For more information about the types of concerns we can deal with, how we go about it, and how we will keep in touch with you, please see what you need to know first.

If you would like more detail about our investigation process, please read how we assess and investigate concerns raised about a veterinary nurse.