The BSAVA and the Links Group are to host regional training days to help veterinary teams recognise and act on non-accidental injuries, helping them understand the link between animal abuse and domestic abuse.

The training will take place in locations across BSAVA’s regional network in the UK, and is open to large, small, and equine veterinary teams.

The sessions will cover the complexity of abuse and the impact of domestic abuse on children, how to recognise abuse/non-accidental injury in animals, how to document information and what to do when dealing with disclosure from a human victim of abuse.

They will also give guidance on setting up a practice protocol and identifying a practice links adviser who will assist those involved in the veterinary team to manage suspected cases of abuse.

Invited guests will include representatives from human and veterinary health, welfare bodies and policy makers.

Vicki Betton, Vice-Chair of The Links Group said: “We’re thrilled to be rolling out our programme of in-person training days with BSAVA.

"Abuse of any vulnerable member of the family, human or animal, is a difficult subject for many to even consider, but with reported cases of domestic abuse reaching an all-time high during the pandemic, its essential that teams are aware of the issue and have a practice protocol in place for if they feel something isn’t quite right with a case.

“We’re looking forward to exploring the most effective ways veterinary teams can recognise and act on suspected cases of non-accidental injury or disclosures of domestic or child abuse.”

The training days are free for BSAVA members and £50 (inc VAT) for non members.

So far, dates have been confirmed for Nottingham on 18th April and Exeter on the 29th June. Others are planned for the Metropolitan, Southern, Wales and North West regions.

To book your place, visit: https://www.bsava.com/education/cpd/regional-cpd

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.