RCVS Exit Survey 2022–2024

The RCVS Exit Survey 2022–2024 is a major new report offering clear, data-driven insight into the state of the UK veterinary workforce.

Developed to support workforce planning and strengthen retention across the professions, the report explores who is leaving the RCVS Register or UK-practising category, why they are leaving, what they plan to do next, and whether they may return. It is an essential resource for employers, policymakers and professional leaders who want to understand the forces shaping the veterinary workforce today.

The survey was conducted by the RCVS’s Dr Vicki Bolton, Research Manager, and Mel Otour, Research Officer. 

Key findings 

• Three distinct populations: vets leaving the Register, vets moving out of the UK-practising category, and vet nurses leaving the Register each show different demographic profiles and motivations.
• Workforce mobility: international movement is a key factor, with many veterinary surgeons relocating or returning overseas.
• Retirement: roughly 60 per cent of respondents were retiring before state pension age, citing being financially able to retire, wanting to spend time on other interests, and the stress of the job as their main reasons.
• Stress and working conditions: eight per cent of vets who responded said they were leaving the profession altogether. They cited chronic stress, workload, and sector pressures.
• Pressures for vet nurses: vet nurses were more likely than vets to say they were leaving the profession. Pay and stress were common reasons, alongside job-specific difficulties such as management and bullying.
• Future plans and support needs: the report explores how many departing professionals intend to return, their concerns about rejoining, and the support they feel would help.

Why this research matters

The Exit Survey gives the RCVS and the professions a clearer understanding of the dynamics shaping the UK veterinary workforce. By analysing who leaves and why, the College can refine its regulatory approach, support retention efforts, and better anticipate future workforce trends.

The findings also provide valuable context for employers, educators, policymakers and others working to strengthen the sustainability of the veterinary professions.

Download the full report

The full RCVS Exit Survey 2022–2024 report includes detailed data, analysis by profession, and extensive appendices.

Download the full report

More information  

For details on the survey methodology and the way RCVS collects and uses data, please visit the Exit Survey information page.

Contact us

If you have any questions about the survey, please email the research team: [email protected].