The Hammersmith team collected their award at the SPVS-VMG Congress 2020.

Staff show commitment to supporting good mental health

The Blue Cross animal hospital in Hammersmith has been recognised for its commitment to wellbeing, winning Best Small Practice at the 2019 Vet Wellbeing Awards on Friday 24 January 2020.

The Vet Wellbeing Awards were created by the Society of Practicing Vets (SPVS), in partnership with the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative. Their purpose is to celebrate practices that are committed to creating a supportive work environment, as well as highlight the significance of wellbeing in veterinary practices. Winners are chosen by a varied panel of veterinary professionals and wellbeing experts.

The Hammersmith hospital is the smallest of the Blue Cross hospitals, undertaking more than 6,000 consultations every year. The team have implemented a number of wellbeing initiatives including regular sharing lunches, ‘Time to Talk’ days, an end-of-the-day wellbeing checklist and a team WhatsApp group which encourages communication.

‘Monthly reflective rounds’ offer a safe space for staff to share their thoughts and feelings, and connect with their colleagues who understand the challenges of this notoriously difficult job.

Managers have regular sessions with a trained psychology coach and mental health first aiders wear green ribbon badges, making them easy to spot around the practice.

Nadine Lock, chief veterinary surgeon at Blue Cross Hammersmith, said: “I am thrilled that in this time of increasing mental health awareness we have been recognised by our veterinary colleagues. It is a real honour to win the Small Practice award and I hope it will encourage others to look at the ways we can create the most supportive working environments possible.”

Image (c) Blue Cross