Woof!

Welcome to the veterinary client mediation service (vcms)

The Veterinary Client Mediation Service (VCMS) is a voluntary, independent and free complaint mediation service for clients whose animals have received veterinary care and for the veterinary professionals providing that care. Using the process of mediation, VCMS offer help and guidance to resolve complaints in a fair, cost efficient manner that is unbiased and non-judgemental. VCMS works with both parties to try and reach a solution that is acceptable to both the client and veterinary professional. The service is funded by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons which regulates all veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses practising within the UK.

All veterinary practices will have their own complaints procedures to deal with concerns raised by clients. Where a complaint cannot be resolved within the practice, the VCMS is here to provide impartial mediation to help find a way forward and try to find a resolution acceptable to both. We will obtain all details of the concern and mediate with both parties to assist in finding a resolution.

The service is provided by Nockolds, who specialises in complaint mediation in regulated professions. This means it is completely impartial and each complaint is considered in a fair, timely and efficient way so that the veterinary professional and client can move on.

Latest Articles

April 16th 2024

How to Support Your Busy Veterinary Practice

In recent times, veterinary practices across the UK have been experiencing unprecedented levels of demand for their services. A combination of factors, including a surge in pet ownership, staff shortages due to Brexit and the…
READ MORE
April 16th 2024

10 Top Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership

Bringing a pet into your life can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. From providing proper care and nutrition, to ensuring their wellbeing and safety, being…
READ MORE
March 14th 2024

VCMS - CMA Response

Following the Competition and Markets Authority’s announcement that they will be conducting an investigation into the veterinary sector, there has been media discussion and focus on animal owner and veterinary practice relationships.
READ MORE
we are an

Independent mediation for veterinary professionals and their clients