Volunteer
Vetlife is almost entirely managed and run by its volunteers. This enables the Charity to keep staff costs as low as possible.
There are three main ways to volunteer:
Vetlife Helpline
Our Helpline is an empathetic listening service manned by volunteers from the profession who have undergone a selection and training process. Helpline volunteers on average do one or two duties a month and are usually able to combine this with their normal daily commitments. The rota is flexible, allowing you to select which days you prefer to be on duty. Please view our Helpline Volunteer information sheet here.
Please complete the Vetlife Helpline Form if you are interested and we will arrange for you to speak to a member of the Helpline’s selection and training team.
As part of the application process, applicants will be asked to complete a criminal record declaration.
It is important that applicants disclose all unspent convictions. Further advice and guidance on disclosing a criminal record can be obtained from Nacro.
Vetlife Financial Support Area Representative
As a Vetlife volunteer, you would join a network of Vetlife Area Representatives throughout the UK. Area Reps provide the interface between Vetlife and those members of the veterinary profession, their relatives and dependants who benefit from its services.
You would help ensure appropriate support is directed to existing and new beneficiaries in need. You could also play a key role in promoting Vetlife within and outside the profession.
Area Representatives often deal with vulnerable people who may be very sensitive, so tact and discretion are essential. You will therefore go through an induction and training and support will be provided.
The role can be challenging but also rewarding, with the opportunity to positively impact the lives of members of the profession who may be in need.
The time commitment is about 6 days per year and all reasonable expenses including mileage are reimbursed. Please view our VFS Volunteering Information Sheet.
As part of the application process, applicants will be asked to complete a criminal record declaration.
Further advice and guidance on disclosing a criminal record can be obtained from Nacro.
To register your interest in this voluntary role, please email [email protected]
Board of Trustees
Trustees’ elections take place every year and candidates are elected by the Vetlife membership and formally appointed at the Annual General Meeting. This year the AGM will be held on 7 September 2023.
Trustees serve one term of 3 years and may choose to stand for a second term. Trustees are required to attend 4 Board meetings every year and to take on management responsibilities meaning the time commitment can be substantial.
In order to stand in the election you will need to become a Vetlife member, and complete the forms found within the members area of the Vetlife website.
Please see:
Please contact the Vetlife office at [email protected] or 0207 908 6385 if you would like more information and/or would like to speak to an existing trustee about the role.
