The veterinary profession plays a vital role in safeguarding animal health and public well-being, but what safeguards are in place for the financial well-being of veterinary professionals themselves?
Recent reports and data across the UK veterinary sector suggest that individuals at every level - from practice managers and support staff to veterinary surgeons and nurses - are facing mounting financial pressures and well-being concerns. These challenges not only affect personal stability but may also impact professional performance, retention, and the ability to deliver high-quality care.
Mounting pressures: the financial and emotional toll
According to Vetlife, a trusted mental health and support charity for the veterinary community, there was a 26 percent increase in calls to its Helpline in 2024, with over 5,000 contacts made. Notably, financial support requests rose by the same percentage, with over £70,000 distributed to support individuals in acute need. This followed an alarming 236 percent increase in financial aid applications in 2022, a trend attributed not only to the rising cost of living but also to increased awareness of available support.
The impact of financial insecurity on well-being is clear and far-reaching. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) 2024 Survey highlighted that:
- Among veterinary nurses, 66 percnt reported poor financial reward as one of their greatest professional challenges
- A significant proportion - 29 percent of nurses - reported long-term health conditions that affected their daily work activities
This convergence of low financial reward, increasing workload, and personal health concerns places immense pressure on individuals working across the veterinary sector. It also raises important questions about how professionals manage financial resilience and what resources might help them build greater security for the future.
Introducing the PG Mutual veterinary financial well-being survey
In light of these challenges, PG Mutual, a not-for-profit income protection provider, is launching a nationwide survey designed to gather insights into the financial resilience and well-being of veterinary professionals.
The aim is to understand attitudes, habits, and concerns related to personal finances across all veterinary roles- including locums, nurses, surgeons, receptionists, and practice managers. The results will help guide the development of tailored tools and resources that can better support the financial well-being of the veterinary community.
- The survey is anonymous
- It takes less than 5 minutes to complete
- It’s open to all roles in the veterinary profession- whether you’re a student or seasoned practitioner
Your voice matters... And you could win
To thank participants for their valuable insights, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win one of five £100 Amazon vouchers*.
Financial resilience is about more than savings or insurance, it’s about having the stability to weather personal and professional challenges, make confident decisions, and focus on doing the work that matters most.
Whether you feel financially secure or are concerned about the future, your perspective matters. By taking part, you’ll contribute to building a clearer picture of the sector’s needs and help shape a more supportive environment for all.
You can take the survey here.
Together, we can take meaningful steps toward a stronger, more financially resilient veterinary profession.
*Terms and Conditions apply: view here
