Veterinary Events and Conferences

BSAVA donates £5000 to Vetlife

vetreportMarch 10, 2021

The BSAVA has pledged £5,000 to Vetlife in recognition of the vital work they are currently doing to support the profession through the pandemic.

The donation goes alongside the practical support the BSAVA is providing through running a series of wellbeing sessions at the BSAVA Virtual Congress 25th – 27th March 2021, which also includes a presentation from Vetlife trustees.

Vetlife is a charity providing emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community. Last year was its busiest year on record with almost 4,000 members of the profession using the helpline, which was an increase of 25% from 2019.

The donation was agreed by the BSAVA board and its members and, together with the large number of health and wellbeing initiatives within the programme at this month’s Congress, demonstrates BSAVA’s commitment to supporting its members during these tough times.

Speaking at BSAVA Virtual Congress, Vetlife will be talking about their support for the veterinary community on the Friday of the event. Vetlife trustees Danny Chambers, founder of Veterinary Voices UK and Adrian Nelson-Pratt, consultant for the EMERGE Veterinary Project will give a broad insight into the support that Vetlife provides, and the services they offer.

“The challenges brought by the last 12 months for all charities have been significant,” said Vetlife President Graham Dick. “Vetlife has not only faced restrictions in fundraising opportunities and a decline in investment fund dividend but has also coped with a significant uplift in demand.

“This has inevitably tapped into our reserves, but we nonetheless remain focussed on continuing to deliver the necessary support to the UK veterinary community whenever and wherever it is needed. The BSAVA’s donation is a very welcome and timely contribution to fulfilling this mission. We are immensely grateful and are looking forward to participating in BSAVA Congress later this month.”

BSAVA Congress will also see keynote speakers Dr Ranj and Jenny Campbell drawing on their own experiences to emphasise the importance of wellbeing. Delegates will also be encouraged to participate in physical activities including yoga and mediation sessions during the event to channel their focus on relaxation.

“The nature of the veterinary role brings challenges to emotional health and wellbeing on a daily basis,” said Professor Ian Ramsey. “We are proud to support Vetlife with this donation and to be championing the importance of taking good care of your mental and physical health within our comprehensive programme at Congress this year.”

To register now visit here.

For information on how to become a BSAVA member visit here. 

Read more articles about the BSAVA here.