Help when you need it

Life in the veterinary team can be challenging. That’s what makes it so interesting and rewarding. But it sometimes can start to feel out of control, leading to levels of stress that can adversely affect your work and your personal life.

We have put together some additional resources to help during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sources of help

Here are some sources of help, there when you need it.

Samaritans

116 123 or jo@samaritans.org
Samaritans is available round the clock, every single day of the year. It provides a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are, however they feel, whatever life has done to them.

Vetlife Helpline

0303 040 2551 or confidential email via Vetlife
Talking to others can help lighten the load. That’s where Vetlife Helpline comes in. It’s available 24/7 to listen and offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your options. It’s for VNs and students, too. All calls are confidential, and callers are referred on for specialist advice where appropriate.

www.vetlife.org.uk
If you’re not sure where to turn, visit the Vetlife website for sources of help on a whole range of problems, such as work-place bullying or eating disorders.

Vetlife Health Support

0303 040 2551
Vetlife Health Support offers free help to anyone in the veterinary community who is experiencing mental health difficulties, including, but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug misuse and eating disorders. It is confidential and is made up of a team of professionals: psychiatrists; mental health nurses; and therapists who have years of experience working in mental health.

Vetlife Financial Support

Access further information and apply via the Vetlife website

There are times in many of our lives when we run into financial difficulties. Vetlife Financial Support are able to provide emergency assistance as well as regular grants, or one-off gifts. Referral can also be made to specialists who can help with debts and benefit advice, and can arrange free CPD.

Although Vetlife is currently only able to offer financial support to veterinary surgeons and their dependants that are resident in the UK, it is worth contacting us if you are a veterinary nurse or student because we may be able to refer you to another charity.

Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons

020 7222 2001
If you need advice about professional, ethical or educational standards, are worried about a dilemma in practice, or a concern that has been raised about you, please contact the RCVS for help and guidance.