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Posted: 14th July 2014
Views on veterinary nursing regulation by the RCVS
A summary of responses to a new Royal Charter, which recognises the RCVS as regulator of veterinary nurses, has been published online.
A consultation on the new charter in December last year received responses from just 11 organisations and 37 individuals.
Both BVA and Central Veterinary Society (CVS) felt the consultation period was too short, while BVA added that a survey or questionnaire would have been better than a full consultation.
The new Royal Charter sets out the objects of the college, and will also combine the list and register of veterinary nurses. It will replace the Supplemental Charter 1967.
The regulation and recognition of veterinary nurses was supported by 17 individuals and five organisations – BVA, BVNA, BSAVA, BEVA and CVS UK Ltd.
BVNA, BEVA, CVS UK Ltd and four individuals also supported the creation of a single register of veterinary nurses. However, five individuals said they opposed this.
Concerns were raised by the PDSA over fees to transfer from the list to the register, while two individuals queried the cost of a new badge, indemnity insurance and increased accountability.
The RCVS subsequently confirmed that there will be no fees to transfer from the list to the register.
BSAVA also said the college should consult listed nurses on their reasons for not transferring to the register. The consultation and plans to combine the list and register were communicated via an individual letter to each listed veterinary nurse.
While the college was thought by the BVNA to be best placed to regulate nurses, there were concerns over future fee increases. It was also questioned whether other methods of regulation had been considered.
The RCVS Council unanimously agreed to the draft charter at the June 6 meeting. If the draft is approved by the Privy Council, it is expected to come into force early in 2015.
Read the full summary of responses on the RCVS website.
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