Vetlife is calling on the UK veterinary community to get active this October in support of mental health and wellbeing. Active October is the charity’s annual fundraising campaign, encouraging individuals and teams to improve their physical and mental wellbeing while raising vital funds for Vetlife’s support services.
This year’s campaign comes at a crucial time, with demand for the Vetlife Helpline at its highest level ever. As more veterinary professionals turn to Vetlife for confidential support, every fundraiser helps ensure these essential services remain available.
Get involved
Whether you take on your own challenge or join one of our organised events, there are plenty of ways to support Active October.
Twickenham Stadium Zipline
On 16th October, members of the veterinary community are invited to take on an unforgettable zipline challenge across the iconic Twickenham Stadium.
Participants will soar 150 metres across the stadium while raising funds for Vetlife. Each participant is asked to pledge to raise £150.
To register, email [email protected].
Veterinary Voices Hiking Weekend
From 1st – 3rd October, Vetlife is teaming up with the Veterinary Voices Hiking Group for a spectacular three-day walking weekend through the Cotswolds.
Based in the beautiful village of Painswick, walkers will enjoy three circular routes of approximately 15–20km each, taking in some of the UK’s most picturesque countryside. Participants can join for one day, two days or the full weekend, making it a fantastic opportunity to get outdoors, connect with colleagues across the profession and support Vetlife.
How to book
To reserve your place:
- Make a donation to Vetlife, either:
- a donation of your choice at https://www.vetlife.org.uk/donate/, or
- become a regular supporter by donating £1 per month (£12 per year) at https://www.vetlife.org.uk/regular-giving/.
- Email [email protected].
- Please let us know which days you plan to attend:
- Day 1
- Days 1 & 2
- All 3 days
- Or any other combination.
Alternative routes will be used if weather conditions require.
Get involved your way
Can’t make one of the organised events? Active October is all about finding a mental or physical activity that works for you.
Whether it’s crafting, baking, walking, swimming, cycling, horse riding, dancing, yoga or something completely different, every activity counts.
Individuals, workplaces and practice teams are encouraged to choose a challenge that boosts their wellbeing while raising funds for Vetlife.
Why your support matters
Vetlife provides free, confidential support to everyone working in the UK veterinary community through its Helpline, Health Support and Financial Support services.
In 2025, the Vetlife Helpline experienced its busiest year on record, reflecting the growing demand for mental health support across the profession. At the same time, the cost of delivering Vetlife’s services now exceeds £1 million each year.
As an independent charity, Vetlife relies heavily on donations and fundraising to continue providing these essential services. Every pound raised through Active October helps ensure that veterinary professionals can access support when they need it most.
Vetlife Trustee and Chair of Vetlife Helpline, Robyn Lowe, said:
“The charitable climate is getting more challenging – there is ever increasingly needs for charitable services but less funding coming in to achieve that. That is why we are eternally grateful to the constant and persistent work of our wonderful community who continue to fill us with pride at how they consistently show up and raise money for Vetlife. It equally fills me with great joy to be able to raise money while also running events like the Veterinary Voices Hiking Group events as it is a way for us to connect, make friends and step away from the fast pace of veterinary life and spend time with people who understand what it’s like.”
Order your Vetlife running vest or t-shirt via the website to wear during your challenge.
Email [email protected] with any questions.
Need support?
Vetlife Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0303 040 2551 or via anonymous email.
