Welcome to the August 2025 edition of the JVSGBI, which contains articles that I am sure will be of interest to a wide range of readers. 

These include the first in a series of editorials by Long and co-authors outlining the principles of, and evidence for, mentorship. Subsequent editorials will detail mentorship processes and the plans of the VSGBI workforce committee to make mentorship readily available for early year vascular consultants. 

A narrative review by Jubouri et al addresses the important topic of psychological challenges for patients with peripheral arterial disease highlighting prevalence, assessment and approaches to management. 

Three original research articles present survey results. This type of research frequently provides crucial intelligence regarding the necessity, design, feasibility and deliverability of future higher level research. The first original article, from the SIMBA collaborative group assesses SSI prophylaxis practice in patients undergoing major lower limb amputation and evaluates how closely this practice aligns with guidelines. The second original article evaluates practices and perceptions of vascular assessment in the community and acute care settings. The final original article assesses the use and value of physical performance based outcome measures in patients undergoing major lower limb amputation. 

A protocol for a study to validate the Clinical Frailty Scale in patients undergoing vascular surgery (major lower limb amputation, aortic aneurysm repair, lower limb revascularisation and carotid endarterectomy) and to evaluate its prognostic value is also presented. 

Two clinical audits are also included in this edition. The first evaluates compliance with global vascular guidelines in 2 different healthcare settings whilst the second assessed glycaemic control in patients with chronic limb threatening ischaemia and impact on outcome. 

Two novel and interesting case reports, the prize winning 2024 Rouleaux Club student essay and updates from affiliated societies are also included. 

Finally, we present with thanks our acknowledgement to our invaluable reviewers.