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Mind Matters - Vetlife and VetSupport

Getting through challenging times is easier when you have support. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, going through a difficult investigation, or just need someone to talk to, help is available. 

Vetlife

For free, confidential support any time, day or night, you can call or email Vetlife .  

Your conversation will stay private, and you'll be supported by trained volunteers who understand the unique pressures you might be facing. 

The Vetlife Helpline is open to everyone working in veterinary settings, including: 

  • Veterinary surgeons
  • Registered veterinary nurses 
  • Students 
  • All other staff working in veterinary workplaces 

Since 2015, we've provided more than £1.1 million in funding to Vetlife through MMI. This helps keep the helpline running, so there's always someone ready to listen when you reach out. 

VetSupport

Sometimes, you need more than just one conversation. VetSupport offers longer-term coaching to help you work through ongoing challenges. 

This voluntary network connects you with ‘peer supporters’ who can help with: 

  • Managing overwhelm, anxiety or stress 
  • Forward planning and decision making 
  • Finding a healthy work-life balance 

VetSupport takes a coaching approach, which means the volunteers work with you to find your own solutions. They won't tell you what to do, but they'll provide support as you figure out what's right for you. 

We provide funding through our Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) to train volunteers for VetSupport, ensuring they have the skills to offer meaningful help. 

Professional Conduct Investigation Support (PCIS)

Going through a professional conduct investigation can be an isolating and stressful experience. Professional Conduct Investigation Support (PCIS) is here specifically for veterinary professionals in this situation. 

This service is part of VetSupport. It offers confidential listening and emotional support from volunteers trained to understand the investigation process. 

You can access this support if you're: 

  • A veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse going through an RCVS professional conduct investigation 
  • Raising a complaint against a fellow professional 
  • Acting as a witness in a case 

The volunteers cannot give you legal advice.They can provide a compassionate ear and help you manage the emotional impact of the process. 

Like the other services, we fund the training of volunteers for Professional Conduct Investigation Support through MMI. 

You're not alone 

These services exist because we understand that veterinary work can be challenging. Whether you're facing a crisis or just need someone to talk to, they are confidential, independent, and run by people who understand your world. You don't have to face difficult times alone.