Our team of specialists

Meet the team behind this exciting programme. We are here to help and will support and guide you whilst you wait for your specialist treatment. Through one-to-one consultations, advice and regular updates by phone and email, we will be here to support you whilst you wait.

Dr Vanessa Lockyer
Clinical Director

I am the clinical director at Meridian, a Primary Care Network of six practices in Cambridgeshire. I work three days a week as a GP partner and love the challenges and variety that come with the job. For me, being a GP is about building relationships with patients at all phases of life and through all aspects of health and wellbeing. The Covid pandemic has provided huge additional challenges, and I’m excited to be working on projects such as Worthwhile Waiting

Will Bailey
Co-founder

I’m co-founder of Worthwhile Waiting, a  programme manager at Meridian, a director of operations for Cambs GP Network, and a member of a steering group for the Cambridge & Peterborough Training Hub. I also support the practice manager at Harston Surgery. I have been promoting and championing social prescribing and holistic wellbeing approaches locally throughout my career, and am a firm believer in the Worthwhile Waiting concept.

Ellen Nowak
Co-founder

I’m a freelance cultural consultant working in the field of arts and health. I work with charities, cultural organisations and healthcare providers to create meaningful engagement opportunities for patients and service users. I’ve held a lifelong interest in the effect of cultural engagement on physical and mental health and believe Worthwhile Waiting can make a real difference to patients waiting for secondary care.

Rowena Bland
Social Prescribing Link Worker

I’m the social prescribing link worker at Meridian, have a degree in health studies and a background working in mental health, supporting young people and carers. I bring hands-on experience helping those with emotional and social problems. My role takes a personalised approach, looking at where strengths lie, and what gives a sense of purpose to someone’s life. I look at ways to re-connect patients with community-based activities that could make a difference, help build confidence, whilst alleviating some of the frustration and anxiety that might be experienced while waiting for surgery.

Ben Jackson
Advisor

I am an Advisor working at the Eastern Academic Health Science Network. Our purpose is to turn great ideas into positive health impact and we believe that health is improved by great ideas, but great ideas only make an impact when they are put into practice. Having previously worked for Suffolk Sport and Public Health England focussing on the health and wellbeing benefits physical activity offers the population, I am delighted to be supporting the Worthwhile Waiting initiative.

How do I get started?

Once you are referred by your GP the waiting journey begins. If you would like us to help you make the most of the time before you see your specialist complete our short form, giving us your preferred time of day that we can call you. Health coaching appointments are provided by your GP surgery so there is no cost to you, some partner activities have a small fee but there are plenty of options free of charge for you.