BSAVA’s Emotional Resilience Skills programme returns

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has teamed up with the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative and Two Roads Charity, to reschedule their emotional resilience CPD courses which were postponed due to COVID-19.

Emotional Resilience Skills for the Veterinary Profession will be held virtually by the BSAVA Regions for the first time in the form of seven half-day programmes from September 2021 until March 2022.

The programme is designed to equip participants with an understanding of the role emotional resilience plays in protecting our mental health. Emotional resilience is mainly a learned behaviour, and there are recognised steps that can be taken to increase resilience and reduce the risk of developing mental health issues including depression.

Jennie Bartholomew, Education Coordinator at the BSAVA commented: “We’re thrilled to be able to offer these courses to the veterinary profession again, especially given the exceptionally tough year we have all experienced which has placed additional strain on mental health and wellbeing for many. We know that this programme will be well received and will be helpful to all members of the profession, wherever they are based."

Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Initiative Manager, said: “We know how tough the last 18 months have been for the veterinary profession, and we are pleased to be working in partnership with two organisations who are as passionate about supporting the mental health of the profession as we are. We are really looking forward to the launch of the programme and we are sure that anyone who attends will come away with a better understanding of their mental wellbeing and how to respond to emotional challenges.”

Designed for the whole practice team, the programme is suitable for anyone who wishes to increase their own resilience and develop the ability to help others at work or at home. Participants will work in groups, and no personal disclosures are necessary, although participants are welcome to discuss private issues after the programme.

The programme is free to BSAVA members; £40 to non-members. Spaces are limited and the sessions will not be recorded. You can book your place online now.