Conference Programme 2026

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Protecting our profession: Implementing suicide prevention with confidence and care

20 Nov 2026
BVA Career Development
Professional Skills , Practice Management

Panel Discussion in relation to implementation of the new RCVS PSS guidance on suicide prevention. This discussion will explore how suicide prevention can be implemented compassionately, and practically, within professional settings. Drawing on clinical, organisational, and lived experience perspectives, the speakers will discuss the current evidence surrounding suicide prevention, common challenges faced by practices when responding to suicide risk, and how individuals and organisations can move beyond raising awareness towards meaningful action, including early identification of distress, supportive conversations, effective signposting, and postvention planning. Panellists will reflect on lessons learned from research, practice, and leadership roles, while addressing common concerns about discussing suicide and supporting colleagues in difficulty. Attendees will gain practical insights into creating cultures of care that strengthen wellbeing, reduce stigma, and promote confidence in responding to suicide-related concerns.

  • • Understand key principles of suicide prevention and their application within professional and workplace settings.
  • • Identify practical approaches for recognising distress and engaging in supportive conversations about suicide and mental health.
  • • Explore the role of organisational culture, leadership, and psychological safety in reducing suicide risk and promoting wellbeing.
  • • Recognise the importance of postvention and ongoing support following suicide-related incidents within a professional community.
Chairperson
James Russell, BVetMed PGDip FHEA FRCVS, Clinical Assistant Professor in farm Animal Practice, Faculty of Medicine & Health - Nottingham University Vet School, Director, Vetlife
Speakers
Rosie Allister, BSc (Hons) BVSc MSc PhD MRCVS, Director, Allister Research and Consulting - Consulting Manager, Vetlife Helpline
James Glass, BVetMed MSc MRCVS, Doctoral Researcher, Suicidal Behaviour Research Lab - University of Glasgow
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Education Partners

royal veterinary college university of london logo    british veterinary association logo 

Sponsors

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