At Slimming World, we understand that taking the first step to join a group is a really big deal. And for our younger members, who might be unsure what to expect, that step can feel even bigger. However, we also know that our younger slimmers see incredible weight loss results!
A recent study of more than 3,200 Slimming World members aged 18-34 found that they’d lost an average of 12% of their body weight – which works out at around 2st 1lb (13kg), with many members losing much more.
73% said they’d improved their health since joining Slimming World, and the research also revealed benefits that go far beyond physical change:
- 92% feel part of a supportive community
- 89% are enjoying a healthier relationship with food
- 59% say their mental wellbeing has improved
Currently, more than a third of 16-24-year-olds and 58% of 25-34-year-olds live with overweight or obesity in England – with these figures predicted to increase by 2050. At Slimming World, we’re committed to helping our members make sustainable changes that fit with their lifestyle, while overcoming their own individual challenges.
What that looks like in real terms is personal to each member. It could be ideas for eating well on a student budget, strategies for slimming while socialising, healthy recipes that the whole family will love or ways to keep active while working from home – the list is endless! Every Slimming World member gets the tools, help and support they need to lose weight in a way that works for them.
Living with obesity can be extremely challenging and young adults are bombarded with online advertising and false promises. It can be very tempting to try risky (and sometimes even dangerous) methods to lose weight, which can have negative long-term impacts. In our weekly face-to-face groups, members find a safe, supportive way to lose weight, alongside something that’s often missing in an increasingly digital world – genuine connection, shared experience and a sense of community.
One such member is Eleanor Brown, a 24-year-old young mum of three, who has lost 6st 4lbs (39.9kg). After years of fad diets and trying weight loss pills, Eleanor joined Slimming World and has transformed both her physical and mental health. She says:
“At 17st (108kg), I was suffering with crippling back pain and knew something had to change. I’d been prescribed weight loss pills, which did nothing, and had tried so many miserable, restrictive diets – all of which I’d quit by day two!
My grandma, Joan, got a great weight loss result with Slimming World, so I went along to see what it was all about. I’d expected the room to be full of older people, but I was amazed to find other young parents there, as well as men and women of all ages.
A lot of people assume I’ve lost weight using injections, and they’re always surprised to find it’s down to changing the way I cook and eat. What’s really helped is going along to my Slimming World group each week and learning how to make everyday meals slimming-friendly. It’s those practical changes like picking up easy, family-friendly recipes that have made all the difference.
People think that healthy food is expensive, but a takeaway can cost £30 for one meal! Thanks to my local group I’ve learned how to eat healthily on a budget.
Before losing weight, I was constantly exhausted and felt mentally drained. I struggled to keep up with my young children and even avoided leaving the house because I was so embarrassed about my size. Now I’m an active mum, and I look forward to going out and getting dressed up. I’m so much more confident.”
Carolyn Pallister, registered dietitian and head of the nutrition, research and health team at Slimming World, says: “Our research shows that being part of a supportive group doesn’t just help you lose weight – it helps change your life. Long-term success comes from building healthy habits, and each week in our groups you’ll find practical tools, expert knowledge and compassionate support to help make those changes stick. As a result, members grow in confidence, form lasting friendships and discover a sense of belonging that makes all the difference. It’s this connection that helps people feel stronger, happier, and ready to embrace a healthier future.”
Charlotte Miller, co-founder of Intergenerational England, says: “What Slimming World’s research shows so clearly is that this isn’t just about weight loss – it’s about belonging. In a society that’s become increasingly age-segregated, there are very few places where people of different ages and life stages come together naturally. Groups like Slimming World are one of those rare spaces, where feeling supported, seen and connected helps change become easier, more sustainable and better for both physical and mental wellbeing.”
If you’d love to change your life in 2026, we’re waiting to welcome you. Check out our latest special offers, search for your nearest group and get set to see real weight loss results with Slimming World!
