Smallest proportion of VNs removed from Register due to annual renewal process improvements

This year has seen the smallest proportion of registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) removed from the Register for non-payment of their annual renewal fee since the College moved to an online-only system in 2020.

This year saw the removal of 331 veterinary nurses from the Register for non-payment of their annual renewal fee of £85, representing 1.3% of RVNs.

This compares to 415 veterinary nurses being removed from the Register, representing 1.8% of RVNs, at the beginning of 2024, and 328 veterinary nurses removed, representing 1.49% of RVNs, at the beginning of 2023.

The annual renewal system for veterinary nurses became fully digital in 2020, with all veterinary nurses being emailed regarding the process rather than being sent letters and renewal forms by post.

Speaking about the trend, Nicola South, our Head of Registration, said: “We are glad to see only a very small proportion of veterinary nurses were removed from the Register this year and this is largely down to improved and simplified communications, including the use of text message reminders which can be more effective in terms of ensuring renewal completion and providing answers to frequently asked registration questions on our website.

“For the past few years, we have also improved our annual renewal process by working with some of the larger veterinary employers to ensure that all their employees’ details are recorded centrally which makes the process of renewing their registration in bulk much easier. Making every employee aware that their employer will be paying the fee, again, makes the process much smoother as fewer communications need to be sent.

“Of course, we are never resting on our laurels and will continue to work to improve the annual renewal process for both veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses so we welcome any constructive feedback about how we can do better.”

In order to carry out delegated tasks under Schedule 3 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, veterinary nurses must be on the Register and employers can check the list and our Find a Vet service to ensure that staff are appropriately registered.

To provide constructive feedback on the annual registration process please email [email protected]