When can I access ProfCon Investigation Support?

Any veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse who has a concern raised against them with the RCVS can access the service. It is also open to those veterinary professionals who have had cause to raise a complaint against a fellow professional, or who have been asked to act as a witness in a case.

How do I access ProfCon Investigation Support?

You can send a message to the info@ email address, and the supporter on duty will make contact with you within 24 hours. Alternatively, by viewing the ‘Meet the Supporters’ page, you can email a specific supporter who you feel may be best aligned to your needs, and they will respond as quickly as possible. Following the initial contact, you and your supporter can agree on the most appropriate method of ongoing dialogue, for example, by phone, WhatsApp, Facetime or email.

How long would any contact with ProfCon Investigation Support last for?

You may just need one email, phone call or meeting to set your mind at rest, or a series of contact points across the duration of your complaint being handled by the RCVS. You may even find that some time after the complaint has closed you feel the need to discuss its impact with someone independent and supportive. The extent to which you use the service, and over what period of time, is entirely up to you.

Will I talk to the same supporter each time I make contact?

This will be the case, where possible, providing you are happy to continue with your nominated supporter.

Do I have to pay for this service?

No, ProfCon Investigation Support is free to access. The supporters are trained volunteers. Their training and ongoing supervision is funded by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons under its Mind Matters Initiative.

Would what I say to my supporter go back to the RCVS?

No, all contact with your supporter is confidential, unless there is a concern that you may need mental health support in order to stay safe in crisis, in which case your details may be shared with an emergency health service. That information would not be shared with the RCVS without your request; no other information would ever be shared.

Does what I say to my supporter affect the outcome of my case?

No. Your supporter is there to support you, not to intervene in your case. They are not legally trained and would not be able to offer you legal support that might affect the outcome of the case. They are there to lend a safe, non-judgemental listening ear, talk you through the process and help mitigate the emotional impact of an RCVS complaint.

If I use ProfCon Investigation Support does that mean I no longer need legal support?

Using the support service does not negate the need for separate legal support, such as that provided via a professional indemnity insurance policy or other legal assistance. The ProfCon Investigation Supporters are there to help you navigate the process and provide a non-judgemental listening service. It is important to secure legal advice separately.