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Vetlife seeks volunteers to help deliver financial aid
Last year, the charity provided over £100k in financial support.
The charity needs new area reps in three regions.

Vetlife is urgently seeking volunteers to help it deliver financial support to those who need it in the veterinary community.

The charity is looking for new area representatives for London, Northern Ireland, and the South East. The role involves working with new applicants and existing beneficiaries of Vetlife Financial Support to understand their circumstances and make sure they receive the right level of support.

Vetlife provides both initial training for its area representatives and annual on-going training for those already in the role. Current volunteers come from a range of veterinary backgrounds, including veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

In 2023, the scheme provided more than £100k in aid to individuals and their dependants in the veterinary community. The support includes emergency assistance, regular monthly grants, and one-off gifts.

John Chitty, honorary secretary and chair of Vetlife Financial Support, said: “With a growing number of applicants for financial assistance, Vetlife has never had more need of area reps performing their essential role.

“Working on the ‘front line’ our reps work directly with beneficiaries and provide much needed support and assistance to vets and nurses in genuine financial, emotional and health need.”

Vetlife area representative Jim Kellow added: “I have been an area rep since 2020 and feel privileged to have been able to communicate with, and help, those that have found themselves in financial difficulties.

“The role doesn't demand too much of my time and as a result I feel I can genuinely help. The support for me in this role has been excellent.”

More information about the role, including how to apply, can be found on the Vetlife website.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.