Jenny and Brigitta – Unity PCN Dietitians

Working across Allesley Park, Broomfield Park and Engleton House surgeries, Jenny Ward and Brigitta David share the role of Primary Care Network (PCN) Dietitians within Unity PCN in Coventry. Between them, they see hundreds of patients, offering timely, practical advice that helps people take control of their health.

Both began their careers in hospital settings, building experience across a wide range of medical conditions before specialising, Jenny in renal care and Brigitta in specialist weight management, before moving into primary care almost four years ago.

“We wanted to show the value of dietitians in prevention and early intervention,” says Jenny. “Primary care gives us that opportunity every single day.”

Why we love what we do

A typical day blends between face-to-face and virtual appointments, follow-ups, and time spent developing new services for our patients. What keeps us motivated in the role is the variety and the people we meet.

“We see patients of all ages and backgrounds,” says Brigitta. “Every story is different. Sometimes it’s helping someone rebuild their confidence after illness, other times it’s supporting long-term lifestyle change. Seeing those small wins, that’s the best part.”

In just one recent quarter, they delivered over 400 appointments across their three practices, with every patient who provided feedback reporting they were satisfied with the care they received. For Jenny and Brigitta, that response reinforces what they value most: feeling trusted and making care accessible.

The impact we’re making

From day one, we’ve have had the freedom to shape our service. We’ve worked to reduce unnecessary supplement prescribing and delivered nutrition-focused training for GPs, nurses and pharmacists, improving consistency and confidence across our practice team.

They also created Wellbeing Mates, a six-month peer-support group that helps patients improve both their physical and mental wellbeing. Designed with colleagues across the PCN, the programme explores nutrition, movement, sleep and self-care in a supportive group setting.

“Some participants came in anxious or socially isolated,” says Jenny. “By the end, they were laughing, cooking together and making new friends. That’s what success looks like to us.”

Participants reported measurable improvements in wellbeing and confidence, and every person who completed feedback said they would recommend the programme to others.

Why dietitians matter in primary care

Jenny and Brigitta’s work shows how dietitians can reduce pressure elsewhere in the system. By managing conditions such as diabetes, frailty and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) within the practice setting, they help patients avoid unnecessary hospital referrals and receive care sooner.

“Dietitians aren’t just about weight,” says Brigitta. “We manage complex conditions, support long-term health and help people make realistic changes that last. Our role is about prevention, and that saves time, money and lives.”

With plans for online IBS management sessions and further group programmes, Jenny and Brigitta are continuing to build their service and strengthen the role of dietetics in primary care.

“Primary care gives us the space to be creative,” says Jenny. “It’s where prevention really happens, and we’re proud to be part of that change.”