Vetlife Day was such a great chance for all of us to pause, catch up and really think about the wellbeing of those working and studying across the veterinary community. On June 19th 2026, Vetlife hosted a climb across the iconic rooftop of Alexandra Palace, making their way to the famous Angel of Plenty statue, standing 130 metres above sea level which risr/ proudly sponsored. And we’re proud to share that over £1.4K has been raised towards Vetlife as a result. If you’d like to donate to the fundraising page, you can do so here.
From a risr/ perspective, the day reminded us why it’s so important to build supportive and safe spaces where everyone feels comfortable in asking for help, looking out for one another and being open about conversations around mental health and wellbeing. It also showed us how the work we do to support learners and professionals really matters.
Throughout the day, we had the opportunity to engage with colleagues, educators and veterinary professionals who shared their experiences, challenges and hopes for the future of the profession. These conversations highlighted both the resilience that exists within the veterinary community and the continuing need to prioritise wellbeing at every stage of a veterinary career.
One of the most encouraging parts of the day was seeing the willingness of people to talk openly about mental health. The veterinary profession faces unique pressures, and initiatives such as Vetlife Day play a critical role in reducing stigma, increasing awareness and signposting support for those who may need it. Every conversation, no matter how big or small, contributes to a culture where seeking help is considered a strength rather than a weakness.
We were honestly so inspired by how much enthusiasm and commitment everyone brought to the day. That willingness to share and learn from each other is exactly what this community is all about.
Looking back, we know that wellbeing isn’t just for one day a year. It’s something that requires ongoing attention, compassionate leadership, supportive networks and easily accessible resources. Vetlife Day is just one example to encourage all of us to consider how we keep these conversations going. The sponsored walk at Alexandra Palace is just a starting point, hopefully to inspire you to host your own Vetlife Day to contribute towards making a difference to the vet community. Learn more about hosting your own Vetlife Day here.
We would like to thank everyone who participated, shared their stories and helped make the day such a positive and meaningful experience. We look forward to continuing these conversations and supporting initiatives that promote wellbeing, reflection and resilience across the veterinary community.
Together, we can continue to build a profession where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.
