“It has been a very difficult time for many people in the veterinary community” - Dr Rosie Allister.
Veterinary support charity Vetlife has announced a record number of calls and emails to its Helpline in the past year, many of which were related to the coronavirus pandemic.
Vetlife, which provides financial, emotional and health support to members of the UK veterinary profession, received 3,921 calls and emails to its VetLife Helpline in 2020, compared to 3,117 in 2019.
Dr Rosie Allister, Vetlife Helpline manager, said: “The last year has been the busiest Vetlife Helpline has seen. It has been a very difficult time for many people in the veterinary community, and we are glad so many people have been in touch. As well as calls relating to the effects of the pandemic, other stresses haven’t gone away and we are still offering support for people experiencing stress, concerns about mental health, work demands, support at work, and many other concerns.
She continued: “It is a privilege to support the veterinary community and I would like to reassure anyone thinking about contacting Vetlife Helpline that we are here to listen confidentially. Anyone who thinks they might need to talk can contact by phone or email.”
Katie Moore, chair of helpline and health support at VetLife, added that the charity's Health Support service had also seen a record number of referrals.
“Given the extraordinary challenges faced by our profession both in 2020 and now in 2021, it is not surprising that not only Vetlife Helpline but also Vetlife Health Support have experienced their busiest 12 month period, with a large increase in referrals to our Health Support service over recent months. I would strongly encourage anyone who is concerned about any aspect of their mental health to get in contact as soon as possible.”
Vetlife is open to all members of the veterinary community, including vet nurses, students, and other practice non-clinical staff. As well as its Helpline and Health Support service, the charity also provides Financial Support to veterinary professionals and their families in the form of regular monthly grants or one-time special gifts.
The service heavily relies on donations and the fundraising activities of its supporters. Donations can be made through the Vetlife website.
Vetlife Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0303 040 2551 or via anonymous email at vetlife.org.uk
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
