Vetlife, the charity dedicated to supporting the veterinary community, has reached a significant milestone, with its Helpline receiving over 5,000 contacts in a single year for the first time in its history.
In 2024, the Vetlife Helpline—offering 24/7 confidential support to all in the veterinary profession—handled 5,111 contacts, reflecting a 26% increase from the 4,042 received in 2023. This equates to an average of 14 people per day reaching out for support.
The charity’s Financial Support service also saw a sharp rise in demand, with applications increasing by 26%. In response, Vetlife provided over £70k in financial aid to those in need, ensuring vital assistance reached veterinary surgeons, registered veterinary nurses, and their dependents.
Additionally, 181 veterinary professionals received award-winning mental health support through Vetlife’s services, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible mental health resources within the profession.
Essential Support Services
Reflecting on the charity’s impact, Vetlife President James Russell recognised the contribution of the volunteers and emphasised the importance of continued support:
“The increased access to Vetlife’s three services of Helpline, Financial Support and Health Support is a testament to the fantastic work of our team of volunteers, experts and support staff in both raising awareness and providing these vital services to colleagues in need and their families. The charity has doubled in demand in the last five years, and the rising trend is predicted to continue across all our services. Every penny donated and raised in support for the charity is more critical than ever in helping us to meet the needs of our community.”
Support Vetlife – Just £1 Can Make a Difference
To keep up with rising demand, Vetlife is asking everyone in the veterinary community to consider giving back. The charity has launched a regular giving campaign, encouraging individuals to donate just £1 per month to help sustain these essential services.
Michelle Gratton, Vetlife Donor Relations Manager highlighted the particular importance of regular giving:
“As demand for our services continues to rise, regular donations play a vital role in helping us plan for the future. By giving consistently, supporters enable us to provide ongoing assistance to those in need and ensure that the most vulnerable in our community always have somewhere to turn.”
Help Vetlife achieve their mission today – sign up here.
The Vetlife £1 a month campaign is kindly supported by Hill’s.
