Our mission, vision and values
Our mission, vision and values set out what we do and why we do it. They guide our role as the independent regulator of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the UK, shaping our approach to regulation, professional standards, and support for the veterinary professions.
Learn how the RCVS’s mission, vision and values underpin our regulation, guide our decisions, and support a thriving, trusted veterinary profession - now and into the future.
Our mission
Our mission is to protect the public interest by ensuring animal health and welfare, and public health, are advanced through thriving, world-class veterinary professions.
We achieve our mission through:
- Fair and proportionate regulation of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses
- Setting standards for education, training, and continuing professional development
- Promoting professionalism, ethics, and accountability
- Supporting animal welfare through effective oversight
- Acting transparently and consistently when concerns about professional standards arise
Our mission ensures that the public can trust veterinary professionals and that the highest standards of care are maintained.
Our vision
Our vision is a confident, competent, and supported veterinary profession delivering high-quality care for animals and society.
We aim to:
- Maintain public confidence through effective and proportionate regulation
- Support lifelong learning, development, and professional responsibility
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across the professions
- Recognise and support the wellbeing of veterinary professionals
- Work collaboratively with stakeholders to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities
Through this vision, we seek to create an environment in which veterinary professionals can thrive and innovation is encouraged, while animal welfare remains central.
Our values
Our work is guided by core values which shape how we regulate the profession and support animal health and welfare.
Our values are:
- Compassion: We are thoughtful and respectful, listening carefully and seeking to understand. We support our staff, so they have the space, energy, and time to respond compassionately.
- Collaboration: We work with stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and create supportive environments to debate what matters. We are curious about a diverse range of perspectives and seek to understand all points of view.
- Clarity: We seek simplicity and we are clear and consistent. We are straight-talking and aim to manage expectations about what is possible. We acknowledge that outcomes can’t always please everyone.
- Courage: For the sake of animal and public health, and high veterinary standards, we think ahead and act with integrity. We look for opportunities to make positive change, and stand firm where it matters, even when it’s difficult.
How our values shape our work
Our values are integrated into every aspect of our work, from regulatory decisions to guidance, education, and engagement with the professions and the public.
Our values are not just words - they inform how we operate every day. They guide how we:
- Regulate fairly and proportionately
- Set and maintain professional standards
- Support education, professional development, and lifelong learning
- Engage respectfully with professionals, the public, and stakeholders
- Embed wellbeing, equality, diversity, and inclusion in all our work
By adhering to these values, we ensure that RCVS is a trusted regulator, a supportive partner, and a forward-looking organisation that meets the needs of both the veterinary profession and society.
The RCVS Strategic Plan 2025-2029
Stronger together, with animal health and welfare at our heart
Our Strategic Plan sets out how we will protect the public interest, advance animal health and welfare, and support veterinary professionals in delivering world-class care.
Guided by our mission, vision, and values, we will work closely with veterinary professionals, animal owners, society, and our staff to achieve these shared goals over the next five years.
The plan reflects extensive collaboration and stakeholder feedback. It focuses on meaningful actions, including:
- Promoting team-based veterinary care
- Supporting professional development
- Championing One Health and public health initiatives
- Fostering an inclusive, thriving workplace culture.
By working together, we aim to ensure the veterinary professions continue to inspire confidence and make a positive impact on society.
Download the RCVS Strategic Plan 2025–2029