New mental health research grant programme coming soon

Do you have an interest in undertaking impactful research, which could make a real tangible difference not only to individuals, but to the future of an entire sector? 

Did you know that research into veterinary mental health is a small, but growing field, and one which requires new, up to date research and insights? 

As the Royal College and regulator of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the UK, we’re committed to being a compassionate regulator. We support our professionals to be the best they can be, so that they can thrive in their roles and continue to work in the best interests of animal health and welfare, and public health. 

Over the past five years, our Mind Matters Initiative mental health project has awarded £120,000 in research grants to support mental health in the veterinary professions. This year, we are delighted to announce that we will continue funding vital mental health research with the launch of our new mental health research grant programme for 2024-2028.

Whether you’re just starting out on your research journey, or are more established in your career, we’re looking for research proposals which can impact practice and/or policy to help us to continue to support those working in the sector. We will support you in your research with promotion of recruitment of participants, as well as press coverage and media support, to help you get the most out of your grant. 

Our £5000 Discovery Grant is perfect for postgraduate or early career researchers looking to kick-start a small-scale study, while our £15,000 Impact Grant is aimed at more established researchers working on more substantial/medium-sized projects. 

All applications must reflect one of MMI's strategic areas of focus for 2024/25. These are: 

• Veterinary suicide  
• Veterinary occupational stressors, trauma and burnout  
• Mental health in veterinary education 
• Veterinary workplace leadership and mental health 
• Veterinary mental health and inclusion 

Grant applications are due to open week commencing 12 August 2024 – so watch this space! If you have any questions about the grants ahead of the launch, please contact the MMI team at [email protected].