VetGDP: Information for practices and employers

The VetGDP is for: 

1. Veterinary graduates who:
   1. Completed their qualification in or after summer 2021,
   2. Are starting their first professional role,
   3. And have not yet completed the VetGDP

Also:

2. Overseas-qualified, or UK-qualified vets returning from abroad, with less than 18 months' experience in a role comparable to the one they are starting in the UK.
3. Vets rejoining the UK Register after 5+ years away.

Please note: exemptions may apply. 

• Boosts recruitment - offering the VetGDP will help you attract high-calibre employees as it demonstrates your commitment to supporting your team's professional growth.
• Improves onboarding - the VetGDP helps graduates refine everyday skills and become confident, competent team members faster.
• Enhances workplace culture - the VetGDP fosters a supportive environment that boosts employee confidence, resilience and retention and enhances team cohesion. 

To be recognised as a VetGDP-approved workplace, you must:   

1. Have at least one VetGDP Adviser on the team. Vets with a minimum of three years' experience are eligible to become VetGDP Advisers. They must complete the required training and submit a declaration to support graduates via their MyRCVS account. Additionally, they need to add a relationship with their practice within their MyRCVS account.
2. Once the VetGDP Adviser has completed their declaration, the practice must submit the VetGDP practice/workplace declaration. This is typically done by the designated senior vet via the practice’s MyRCVS account

Make the VetGDP practice/workplace declaration

This must be done by the appointed senior veterinary surgeon - typically, the person responsible for veterinary medicines.

Important: employers must have a trained VetGDP Adviser on their staff before they can make the VetGDP declaration.

The declaration must be submitted via the practice or workplace MyRCVS account. 

To make the declaration:

1. Log into your practice or workplace MyRCVS account
2. Select VetGDP from the top menu
3. Click 'Declaration to become a VetGDP practice'
4. Read, tick all boxes and submit 

Need help? 

Email [email protected] with your practice postcode.

Every practice or workplace has a MyRCVS account with a unique username. This is the same username used to log into STANLEY in the PSS scheme. 

Unsure of your username? Email [email protected] with your practice postcode for help.

Promote your accreditation by:

• Displaying the VetGDP logo on your website, email signatures, social media, and job advertisements.
• Updating your details on Find a Vet (graduates actively look for VetGDP-approved employers).

1. Your employee will need to complete the VetGDP if they:
   1. Graduated in or after 2021 and haven't yet completed it.
   2. Qualified overseas, or qualified in the UK before practising overseas and have less than 18 months' comparable experience.
   3. Are returning to the UK Register after a 5+ year break.
       
2. To become a VetGDP-approved workplace: 
   - Ensure your have a VetGDP Adviser who has completed the e-training and signed the declaration in their MyRCVS account.
   - Submit the VetGDP practice/workplace declaration through your practice MyRCVS account.
    
3. Once you have completed the VetGDP declaration, you can download the VetGDP logo and other resources from your practice's MyRCVS account. Adding these to your website, emails and job vacancies will help job seekers easily identify you as a VetGDP-approved employer.
    
4. Ensure you update your practice details on Find a Vet to include your approved status. Graduates know to look for VetGDP accreditation when job-seeking.
    
5. Graduates have up to 18 months to complete the VetGDP. If more time is needed, they should email the VetGDP team at [email protected] to discuss their options.
    
6. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].