Vet and RVN hikers complete first wellness walk of 2022

A hiking group, formed from vets and RVNs, covered 17km and gained 650 during snow at Glencoyne Head in the Lake District during storm Eunice to boost mental health within the profession.

The group took part in its first Veterinary Voices Hiking Group walk of 2022 to promote mental well-being charity, Vetlife.

Veterinary Voices Hiking Group was formed by RNV Robyn Lowe and vets Danny Chambers and Paul Horwood to raise money for Vetlife and get the profession out walking and socialising.

The group aim to walk, collectively, 10,000km in 2022.

Dr Horwood stated: “Getting into the hills is my happy place and the hiking group is there to encourage and support getting out into the countryside with friends and colleagues from across our profession. The weekend in the lakes was the perfect antidote to the stresses and pressures of life and was our second planned trip. If you want to get involved, please join the Facebook page.”

Mrs Lowe stated: “Walking has always been a big part of my life, disappearing into the countryside really helps me switch off in an otherwise hectic and busy life. This weekend was the perfect example of why I want to encourage veterinary professionals of any ability to start reaching out to other locals to get out walking. Exercise is not the solution to our profession’s mental health burdens, but exercise, connections, friendships and reducing isolation can go some way in helping to support those experiencing mental health issues. I would urge anyone to give it a go.”