WorkWell We're Here to Support You
Meet the Team
We would like to introduce you to our fabulous WorkWell Team here in South Cumbria:
Name: Michelle Foody
Job Title: Senior Work and Health Coach
I am a qualified Occupational Therapist, with over 10 years’ experience in the healthcare industry. My post graduate experience includes acute physical health, mostly on stroke and orthopaedics, and adult community mental health and mental health crisis team. As an Occupational Therapist I am specially trained in assessing the barriers that impact people’s daily lives, and trying to find solutions and ways around these barriers.
I am passionate about building people’s confidence and encouraging them to be the best version of themselves. I always want to be someone’s advocate and fight for things to be better, for example, when it comes to adjustments at work or the health care system as a whole.
I love when I see the participant’s progress, whether that’s getting a job, gaining confidence or managing their mental health symptoms or pain symptoms better.
Fun Fact: I can count to 10 in 5 languages – English (obviously), Irish, German, French, and Chinese Mandarin.
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, hiking in the Lakes, cooking, travel (I’ve travelled most of the countries in Europe & South East Asia. South America is next on my list), listening to music (big fan of Taylor Swift, Green Day and Lewis Capaldi), spending time with people I love.
Name: Kiera Turner
Job Title: Work and Health Coach
I have a background in both employment support and education. In my previous role, I delivered a supported internship programme for young adults with a learning disability and/or autism, helping them secure paid employment. I also have previous experience as both a job coach and an employment advisor. In these roles, I delivered workplace training, support and careers advice. I have a bachelor of laws degree from the University of Central Lancashire. During my time here, I worked at the Advice and Resolution Centre, offering local residents free legal advice in their law clinic.
I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives by supporting individuals on their journey to employment. I am driven by the opportunity to help others build confidence, overcome barriers, and achieve their personal and professional goals.
I am looking forward to celebrating the progress made by participants and helping them grow in confidence and realise their full potential.
Fun Fact: I am allergic to strawberries!
Hobbies/Interests: Outside of work, I enjoy taking my dog to the beach and on hikes in the lakes.
Name: Verity Gardner
Job Title: Work and Health Coach
I previously worked as a Community Engagement Officer in the VCSFE sector, where I focused on raising awareness, increasing referrals, and building strong networks with internal and external stakeholders, as well as directly supporting beneficiaries. Before that, my background was in hospitality across the South Lakes and Lancashire, where I developed a passion for working with people.
I care deeply about supporting people in the community to grow in confidence and resilience as they work towards their goals. By drawing on my own lived experiences, I aim to build genuine connections and create a safe, understanding space where individuals feel heard and supported. My goal is to encourage and empower people to overcome challenges and take steps towards a more positive future.
In my role as a Work and Health Coach, I’m looking forward to helping people break down barriers and move closer to meaningful employment and independence. I’m also excited to work alongside local organisations and partners to strengthen community connections and create lasting opportunities for change.
Fun Fact: I once completed a tandem skydive from 15,000 ft to fundraise in memory of my late partner, Simon, and in support of St John’s Hospice in Lancaster.
Hobbies: Outside of work, I enjoy walking my puppy Roo along the coast, it’s been refreshing to return to the area and live by the sea. I also love exploring charity shops and spending quality time with family and friends.”
Name: Joe Gabbert
Job Title: Work and Health Coach
I have experience in both education and employment support. My previous role was as a Support Worker in a hostel for homeless 17-25 year old’s supporting young people into work and education. I have also worked as a Learning Mentor in a college working 1-2-1 with students, providing support and guidance so that they could achieve their qualifications.
I am passionate about helping people to make positive improvements in their lives so that that they can begin to take the steps to reach their goals, whatever they may be. I am looking forward to working with participants and supporting them on their journey back into work.
Fun Fact: My sister and I have the same birthday but she is two years younger than me!
Hobbies/Interests: In my spare time I enjoy playing the guitar and walking in the lakes.
