The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has launched a new WhatsApp broadcast channel, as well as re-launching its official podcast. The two media outlets aim to make the latest College news and project updates more accessible for members of the veterinary professions and the public, providing a greater variety of ways to receive important information and find out more about topics of particular interest.
The RCVS Podcast will now feature as a more permanent branch of the College’s communications. The new format will discuss a range of RCVS activities – beginning with a short news-like segment, before going onto a more in-depth discussion on a specific topic.
The first episode – “Research with Ppurpose: an RCVS perspective” – discusses the integral role of research in supporting veterinary professionals in the workplace, as well as busting some common workforce myths. The episode also features news and events updates, including information on how members can get involved in ongoing College initiatives.
The new WhatsApp channel is being introduced to act as an additional “broadcast” channel, to deliver the latest RCVS news directly to people’s phones, as well as information about current and upcoming events, feature articles, blogs, videos and podcasts. The RCVS WhatsApp channel can be followed on a voluntary basis, much like the College’s current social media channels.
Ian Holloway, RCVS Director of Communications, said: “In line with our organisational strategy, we’re keen to diversify the range of options we have for communicating with the professions and wider public, particularly in terms of how we share news and other important information.
“We understand how busy veterinary professionals are and how challenging it can be to stay up to date with College updates – particularly for those working in settings with limited access to emails. By reintroducing our podcast and launching a WhatsApp channel, we aim to make information more accessible, giving professionals and animal owners alike new and more flexible ways to engage with us in a way that suits them.”
To listen to The RCVS Podcast, visit the RCVS podcast page. It’s also available to download via PodBean, Apple podcasts, and Spotify. For veterinary professionals, listening to the podcast can also count towards continuing professional development (CPD) requirements. You can follow the RCVS WhatsApp channel here.