Professional support
Life in the veterinary profession can be challenging. That's what makes it so interesting and rewarding. However sometimes things can get out of control, leading to levels of stress that can adversely affect your work and your personal life.
If you are feeling worried about work and would like some help please feel free to contact us through alumni@rvc.ac.uk. We can then put you in touch with the relevant RVC staff who understand the pressures of being a new graduate and also the strain of struggling in your work and challenge of changing jobs.
There are also a variety of specialist resources which are available to support you, whether you are a recent graduate or have years of experience:
- the BVA's Young Vet Network provides additional support and guidance for BVA members in their final year of study and first 8 years after graduation. It is free as part of BVA membership.
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons - if you need advice about professional, ethical or educational standards, are worried about a dilemma in practice or a concern that has been raised about you, please contact the RCVS for help and guidance.
- Samaritans are available round the clock, every single day of the year on 116 123. It provides a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are and however they feel.
- You can also access free mental health support via . Togetherall is a digital mental health and wellbeing support service which is available online, 24/7 via computer, tablet or smartphone. Togetherall is completely anonymous so you can express yourself freely and openly. Professionally trained Wall Guides monitor the community to ensure the safety and anonymity of all members. Togetherall offers a range of activities that allow you to work through what's troubling you.
- Share your thoughts and join a 'Talkabout' alongside fellow members to share and discuss what's on your mind, gain support and advice. You can do this with the whole community or form your own groups or one-to-one chats.
- Alternatively, make a Brick to express yourself and your feelings creatively through drawing or by uploading your own images.
- Join our self-guided support courses covering topics such as anxiety, sleep, and depression to problem solving and Assertiveness training.
- Take self-assessments to help you understand more about yourself.
- Find a library of information within 'Resources' which can help you understand more about yourself, how you are feeling, set goals and track your progress.
Sign up Visit , click 'Register' and then select the 'I'm from a University or College' tile. You will need to use your RVC email address to access this service and will be prompted to enter it and you can then set up an anonymous username. The site is anonymous and the RVC will not be able to identify anyone using the site.
- run by the Veterinary Benevolent Fund (VBF) which is the independent registered charity that provides free and confidential support to the veterinary community. Written by vets for vets and vet nurses, you can find information and support spanning a range of common issues such as mental health, professional conduct, workplace bullying, employment and debt. They also run a Vet Helpline (0303 040 2551) which provides support from trained volunteers by telephone and email to everyone in the veterinary community, including nurses and students. Its available 24/7 to listen and offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your options. All calls are confidential and callers are referred on for specialist advice where appropriate.
- The Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of those in the veterinary team, including students, veterinary nurses, veterinary surgeons and practice managers. MMI was launched in 2015 and is funded and run by the . Their website provides links to events, training, advice and resources to prevent, protect and support veterinary mental health.
Managing a team?
There is a document available about , which is designed for managers, health and safety officers and anyone else who has an interest in the wellbeing of their veterinary team. It contains useful tips on how to implement steps to support wellbeing and reduce stress in the workplace.