Research on Antibiotic Use and Prescribing Practices in UK Calf Rearing Sector

This project is being commissioned by the VMD. The scope of this research is a literature review to review evidence gaps in antibiotic use and prescribing practices in the calf rearing sector. Mixed method research inquiry to be completed involves qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis of veterinary surgeons working in the calf rearing sector.

Requirement The key requirement for the research is the ability to access cattle veterinary surgeons who are able to provide feedback for the project. In addition, the researcher should have sufficient background knowledge of the UK livestock and agricultural sector, specifically cattle and ideally knowledge of the beef x dairy calf sector.

It is required that the bidding party can explain their intended approach to the methodology to ensure a sample of the beef x dairy calf industry that is as representative as possible. In addition, this project is intended to be a mixed method project therefore, ability to collect and process both qualitative and quantitative data is required.

A key deliverable at the end of the project is an internal report outlining the key findings from the study. Any quotations from participants should be anonymised so vets cannot be identifiable. In discussion with the VMD, a publication/journal article summarising the key findings for external stakeholders is also encouraged. This project should cover as many UK regions as possible.

However, it is more important for the study includes a range different systems of beef x dairy calf rearers, e.g. large integrators as well single farm units rearing their own calves/ calves purchased from market.