Our Spokespeople

We can provide spokespeople on topics including arthritis research, our calls to the government on the injustices that people with arthritis face, such as access to treatment, NHS waiting times, and the impact on work, mental health and daily life. 

We work in all four nations in the UK and have spokespeople available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

To request an interview with one of our spokespeople, please contact the Press Office. 

Contact our Media and PR team with any media enquiries 

Telephone: 0300 7900 456 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm 

Email: press@versusarthritis.org

Deborah Alsina MBE 

Chief Executive 

Deborah Alsina is a passionate advocate for people with arthritis. She has personal experience of living with a musculoskeletal condition and the challenges that chronic pain can bring. Deborah campaigns to ensure that every person with arthritis can gain access to a swift diagnosis and the best treatment and care.

Zoe Chivers 

Director of Services and Influencing 

Zoe Chivers leads our strategy to better support people with arthritis to manage their condition and live well. She leads on delivering high-quality services for people with arthritis including expert information and support.

Professor Lucy Donaldson 

Director of Research 

Professor Lucy Donaldson is a leading figure in steering our research to move closer to a future free from arthritis, and ultimately find a cure. Her research legacy spans over 40 years with a focus on the mechanisms of acute and chronic inflammatory pain. 

Joe Levenson 

Assistant Director of UK Advocacy and Health Intelligence 

Joe Levenson leads on our policy and campaigns and has a particular interest in tackling inequalities. He is passionate about making policy accessible and ensuring decision makers understand the experiences of people living with arthritis.

Lauren Bennie 

Head of Scotland 

Lauren Bennie leads our influencing work in Scotland, advocating for our priorities with the Scottish Government. Lauren plays an integral role in developing communities of support for people with arthritis in Scotland.

Sara Graham 

Head of Northern Ireland  

Sara Graham leads the charity's work in Northern Ireland. She influences government to make arthritis a priority, calling for improved diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and a strategic approach to musculoskeletal healthcare in Northern Ireland.

Mary Cowern 

Head of Wales 

Mary Cowern provides strategic leadership in Wales. Having lived with arthritis since her early 20s, she is a passionate advocate of patient empowerment. A strong public speaker, Mary has given lectures on arthritis, pain, musculoskeletal conditions and disability.