Meet the Experts – The Team Behind Accelerate’s Lipoedema Care
Behind every effective treatment plan is a team that truly understands your condition.
At Accelerate, our clinicians work with people affected by lipoedema, lymphoedema and complex swelling every single day – not just occasionally.
Our team brings together advanced clinical expertise, national leadership, and a deep commitment to improving awareness and outcomes for people living with these under-recognised conditions.
A Centre of Excellence for Lipoedema Care
Accelerate is recognised nationally for its evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach.
We are proud to collaborate with key organisations including:
- Lipoedema UK
- The British Lymphology Society (BLS)
- The Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN)
- Lymphoedema United
- The Legs Matter coalition
Through these partnerships, we help shape national guidance and raise professional standards in the management of lipoedema and lymphoedema.
Our clinicians also contribute to international research and training, sharing expertise through the Accelerate Academy and other educational initiatives that promote high-quality, compassionate care.
Meet Our Clinical Leaders
Rebecca Elwell
Msc Lymphoedema and Director of National Clinical Services
Rebecca is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner specialising in lymphoedema and lipoedema, with over 20 years’ experience.
She is a Trustee of the British Lymphology Society (BLS) and a regular national presenter and educator.
Rebecca was one of 60 global healthcare professionals who founded the International Lipoedema Association (ILA) in 2021 and was a contributing author of the International Consensus Document – Lipoedema: a Paradigm Shift and Consensus (2020).
Her clinical interests include advanced assessment, compression therapies, and developing multidisciplinary care pathways for complex swelling.
“When patients finally get a clear diagnosis, you can almost see the relief in their faces. It’s about being really listened to and understood – and then being empowered.”
Caitriona O’Neill
Director of Clinical Services & Lymphoedema
A Registered General Nurse with a background in palliative and community care, Caitríona leads lymphoedema service development across North East London.
She’s an active member of the Pan-London Lymphoedema Practice Group and was part of the expert panel that developed the first UK Best Practice Guidelines for Lipedema (2017).
Caitríona is passionate about equitable service design and ensuring that people with chronic swelling conditions have access to high-quality, consistent care.
“Our aim is to make sure every person we see feels listened to, respected and guided – not judged or dismissed.”
Fran Campbell
Clinical Lead, Podiatry & Biomechanics
Fran is a musculoskeletal podiatrist with expertise in gait analysis and lower-limb load management.
She is Vice-Chair of the BLS Scientific Committee and plays a key role in reducing the biomechanical strain that often contributes to pain and mobility issues in people with lipoedema or lymphoedema.
Her approach integrates compression therapy, orthotic support, and functional movement strategies.
Anna Swinburn
Advanced Lymphoedema Nurse Specialist
Anna is an Advanced Practitioner with a special interest in lower-limb lymphoedema and lipoedema.
She was shortlisted for Chronic Oedema Nurse of the Year (2021) and regularly contributes to professional education through the Accelerate Academy.
Her focus is on helping patients build long-term management routines and confidence through expert guidance and ongoing support.
Rhodri Harris
Advanced Lymphoedema & Lipoedema Specialist Nurse
Rhodri is a Specialist Nurse with particular expertise in lipoedema assessment, compression planning, and self-management.
He is a clinical advisor for Lipoedema UK, supporting monthly “Ask the experts” webinars for Lipoedema UK members and in October 2025, he attended the World Lipoedema Congress. Rhodri plays an active role in ensuring patients receive compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their lifestyle and needs.
“Good care is not about quick fixes – it’s about giving people the knowledge and tools to live better every day.”
Why Our Team Approach Works
Lipoedema rarely affects just one aspect of life. It influences how you move, how you feel, and how you see yourself. That’s why Accelerate Health CIC brings together expertise in:
- Clinical assessment and diagnosis
- Compression garment planning
- Movement and biomechanics
- Skin and wound care
- Weight management support
- Pain and comfort management
By working as a multidisciplinary team, we ensure every part of your plan is aligned – from your first consultation to your ongoing review.
Our connected approach means that when you visit Accelerate, you don’t just see one specialist – you access an entire network of expertise focused on your comfort, confidence, and long-term wellbeing.
Shaping the Future of Care
Beyond our clinical work, Accelerate’s experts contribute to national and international teaching, research and policy development.
We regularly help update UK clinical standards, publish peer-reviewed papers, and deliver training for healthcare professionals across the country – ensuring that expertise in lipoedema and lymphoedema spreads beyond our walls.
This work reflects our mission: to transform outcomes for people living with conditions affecting the legs and lymphatic conditions through evidence, empathy, and excellence.
Your Next Step
When you’re ready to understand your symptoms and take control of your care, our experts are here to help.