CEO & Medical Advisory Board

Since becoming CEO of TNA UK, Aneeta has overseen the day-to-day delivery of trustee-approved services, with a focus on accessibility, reach and quality. During this period, the Association’s membership has increased approximately threefold, while the number of Regional Support Groups has more than doubled. Following the introduction of the freephone helpline and Friendship Line, the charity has experienced a sustained increase in contact from people seeking information, reassurance and support.

Aneeta has overseen the delivery of TNA UK’s national online webinar programme, coordinating contributions from leading clinical experts in the UK and internationally. The programme was particularly important during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when many members were isolated and some were using Zoom for the first time. Members described the sessions as a lifeline, helping people with trigeminal neuralgia, their families and carers to understand treatment pathways, including surgical options.

She has also supported successful applications for in-kind funding to improve digital inclusion, including the provision of tablets and internet connectivity. This enabled members at risk of isolation to access online support, attend webinars and remain connected during the cost-of-living crisis.

Aneeta conceived and developed the #FaceOfTN and #ShowTN3Fingers campaigns, including the distinctive three-finger visual representing the three branches of the trigeminal nerve. Both initiatives were her original ideas and have generated engagement from people affected by trigeminal neuralgia across the UK and internationally. She has also produced and coordinated educational and awareness videos for YouTube, which have collectively received more than 100,000 views.

Under trustee governance, Aneeta has overseen the delivery of the charity’s largest-ever trigeminal neuralgia patient survey, strengthening TNA UK’s evidence base for service development, public awareness and future policy work.

Aneeta is also a trustee of The Neurological Alliance.

Outside TNA UK, Aneeta is the founder of Freedom Charity, which works to prevent forced marriage, female genital mutilation and modern slavery. She has written two novels that support Freedom’s educational and safeguarding work. She is a former member of the Metropolitan Police Authority and serves as a London magistrate in the adult, youth and family courts.

Aneeta holds an honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Winchester and appears regularly across major television and radio networks as a commentator. Her work has also been featured in national newspapers and magazines.

Her honours and recognition include the Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award, received in 2014; inclusion in the Evening Standard Progress 1000 for four consecutive years; and selection for British Airways’ BA 100, celebrating 100 people who have helped shape modern Britain. Aneeta was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the King’s New Year Honours for services to charity.