Give a huge round of applause for our incredible 2026 team…

Alex Lambert-Lea, who has lost 4st 3½lbs (27kg).

Bethan Griffiths who has lost 1st 10½lbs (11kg) with the Abergavenny Slimming World group.

Kevin Bunda and his Consultant Sascha Ross, who will be taking on the challenge together. Kevin has lost 6st ½lb (38kg) and Sascha has lost 6st 4½lbs (40kg). 

Slimming World Head Office Digital Support Team Specialist Emily Burnett.

Member Ian Hage, who has lost 10st 1½lbs (64kg).

Karly Finnegan, who has lost 3st 4lbs (20kg) with the Portadown Slimming World group.

Slimming World Consultant Wayne Wilson, who has lost 2st 7lbs (16kg) and runs his own groups in Cramlington.

Victoria Coltart-Sharp, from Folkestone, who has lost 2st 8lbs (16kg). 

Slimming World Consultant Douglas Clark, who has lost 13st 6lbs (85kg) and runs his own group in Renfrewshire.

Kayleigh Gallant, who has lost 3st (19kg) with the Drayton Slimming World group.

Member Sarah Pullan, from Leighton Buzzard, who has lost 5st 2lbs (33kgs).

Sarah Harding, who attends the Watton Slimming World group and lost more than 8st (50.8kg). Sarah deferred her space on the 2025 team to welcome her new baby! 

Whitley Lloyd, 34, turned to food for comfort after losing her nan at 24, relying on up to four takeaways a week at around £30 each. She says: “I didn’t realise how much it all added up. Looking back now, it’s shocking to think about how much money I was spending.

“Before Slimming World, I’d barely eat during the day, only to end up having takeaways and snacks late at night. I used to think takeaways were a treat, yet I found I wasn’t enjoying them anymore – they were making me feel poorly and giving me headaches.”

Since joining Slimming World, Whitley has swapped late night‑ takeaways for homemade “fakeaways” and discovered a love of home cooking while dramatically cutting her food spending. She says: “When I think I was spending up to £500 a month on takeaways and now, I’m not only saving money – I’ve only had four takeaways this year – I’m also proud of the fantastic healthy meals I can cook.”

Whitley’s experience reflects the findings from a new UK-wide ‑poll[1], which shows the cost of the nation’s fast-food habit:

• 60% of people spend up to £50 a week on takeaways and high-fat convenience foods
• 29% spend over £100 a month on frozen items like nuggets and chips
• 47% believe they’d save a significant amount by cutting back
• Yet 20% don’t feel confident cooking from scratch

When people do cook at home, the benefits are clear: 46% save money, 40% feel healthier and 29% say their family eats better.

The turning point for Whitley came when she saw a photo of herself at a family party. Encouraged by a friend, she joined her local Slimming World group – a decision she says: “changed everything”.

At the time Whitley, who is 5ft 3in, weighed 15st 9lbs. She says: “That first week I threw myself into the healthy eating plan and I lost 5lbs. It was a huge moment for me. For the first time, I realised losing weight was possible!”

With the support of her Consultant Jo and fellow members, Whitley learned to cook satisfying, budget-friendly meals from scratch. Whitley says: Before I joined Jo’s group I hadn’t realised I could cook such tasty, healthy meals using low price, everyday ingredients. Jo’s shown me the key to lasting weight loss is being consistent. Things like thinking ahead and planning my meals for the week – having those ‘go‑to’ recipes ready stopped me reaching for takeaways and I started enjoying my food more.

“I’ve had struggles along the way, yet Jo’s helped me spot my danger times – like when I’m going out with the girls, Jo’s helped me realise I can still enjoy those night outs and stay on plan by being more mindful of what I’m eating or drinking.”

With food inflation continuing to affect households across the UK, many people believe that healthy eating is more expensive. Whitley found this wasn’t the case though: “I’ve lost weight by eating delicous, satisfying meals, saved money and discovered I’m a really good cook. My most recent success was a vegetable madras it was amazing. My dad’s a real foodie and he always asks when I’m making his favourite Slimming World meals.”

Whitley, who lives with her husband Sean and her daughter Aleena, 12, has gone from a size 18 to a size 10.  She says: “I used to get out of breath doing almost anything – even just going up the stairs. I’d previously worked as a hairdresser and being on my feet all day, I’d end each shift in so much pain. Since losing weight and gradually becoming more active with Slimming World’s active lifestyle programme, I was able to complete Couch to 5k. I cried when I finished it. I never believed I’d be able to do something like that. I’m happier, healthier and truly myself again. Slimming World didn’t just help me lose weight – it gave me back my spark, my confidence and control of my finances.”

Slimming World’s own member survey shows the potential savings even more starkly. The study[2] of over 1,500 members – over three quarters of whom (77%) have lost more than a stone – reveals a significant financial benefit for members. Before joining, 88% spent up to £100 a week on takeaways and convenience foods. Since joining, 39% say they’ve cut these purchases out entirely – a change that could save households over £5,000 a year.

Slimming World’s evidence-based programme has been helping people to build healthy habits around food, drink and activity for 56 years.

[1] Research conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2000 General Respondents across the UK between 11.03.2026 - 16.03.2026.

[2] Research conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 1,656 Slimming World Members between 11.03.2026 - 17.03.2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. We adhere to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles.

Group: Whitley attends Jo Thomas’ Slimming World group in Brecon – contact Jo on 07411891480 for more information. To join your local Slimming World group or sign up online for even more recipes, guidance and support, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000. 

Whitley Lloyd, 34

Starting weight: 15st 9lbs/99.3kg

Weight lost: 4st 12lbs/30.8kg

Current weight: 10st 11lbs/68.5kg

Height: 5ft 3in/160cm

Graham’s wife Belinda was so frightened by his snoring and repeated breathing pauses she became convinced he had sleep apnoea. Looking back, Graham says: “I can honestly say that if I hadn’t joined Slimming World, I don’t believe I’d have lived to see 60.”

Before joining Slimming World, Graham says he was constantly exhausted, lethargic and barely able to walk a mile.  He says: “I avoided the doctor for years because I knew what they’d say: “You have to lose weight.” Even though I’ve always worked in physical jobs – I was a groundsman and now I’m a window cleaner – and I always told myself I was “fit for a big bloke”, the reality was very different. As I got older, it became harder and harder to work the weight off. I was tired all the time. 

“The real turning point came when I was in hospital for more than two weeks with a serious leg infection. The doctor drew a pen line around the infection and he told me it couldn’t spread past that mark. He said if the antibiotics didn’t work within 48 hours, they’d have to amputate my leg. That was it – that was the moment, I knew I’d run out of chances.”

Graham’s story reflects Slimming World research showing how closely sleep and weight are linked. Slimming World’s ‘Snooze More to Lose More’ survey polled its members over the course of a week about aspects of their sleep. The study of more than 3,000 members revealed nearly half of those who lost 15% or more of their body weight reported better sleep. The survey showed the more weight Slimming World members lost, the more likely they were to report improvements in sleep.

Before joining his local Slimming World group, Graham says each Saturday watching his beloved Ipswich Town would see him regularly drink 10 pints. He says: “I always worked hard, I was active, but food and drink was my downfall. Every afternoon around 2.30pm I’d have six bags of crisps back-to-back, followed by five or six chocolate bars. Belinda would cook a healthy meal every evening, but once everyone had settled down, they’d hear me back in the kitchen rustling the packets – it was like I couldn’t stop myself.”

Graham says: “Walking into a Slimming World group felt terrifying, but Belinda encouraged me to go and as soon as I walked through the doors, Shani, the Consultant, clocked me straight away. She was brilliant and made me feel welcome, which gave me confidence.”

Graham committed and says the transformation has been lifechanging: “Now, Belinda and I plan our meals together using the app. Our favourites include chicken risotto, pasta dishes, curries and the Slimming World Free Food range at Iceland. We recently went on an all-inclusive long weekend and I stayed on plan without feeling deprived or like I was missing out. That’s when I knew this is my new normal. The plan has become part of my everyday routine, so I ate well but stayed mindful about what I chose. For breakfast, instead of going straight for a full English, I leaned more towards fruit and if I did have bacon, I removed the fat. Lunch was usually chicken or tuna salad with fruit and I chose healthier dinner choices like fish or lean steak. I also kept alcohol low and it all felt natural – and showed me how much my habits have changed.

“Slimming World didn’t just help me lose weight – it taught me how to eat properly. I tried pills, exercise, everything. This is what worked. It’s given me my life back. Nowadays I feel like a 20-year-old. I walk up to 10 miles a day with my dog. Before, I was lucky if I managed one mile. I sleep through the night. No more gasping for air. No more sitting upright in the dark, terrified. I wake up feeling rested. 

“I’ve ditched crisps and chocolate completely. Once I put my mind to it, I knew I could do it. I’m so proud knowing that I’ve inspired other people locally to join after seeing my journey on Facebook.

“Belinda and I have been married for 35 years and we have three adult children – Sian, Matthew and Bethany – and three grandsons aged eight, five and just seven months. I realised I didn’t just want to lose weight. I wanted to be here for them. At 55, I’ve been given a second chance. I’m not just lighter – I’m alive, awake and present. And I fully intend to be here, watching my grandchildren grow up, for many, many years to come.”

For 56 years, Slimming World has helped people change their habits with real-life support in weekly groups led by trained Consultants who truly understand the challenges of weight loss. Members get a powerful package of support including a flexible eating plan and an app that helps members stay motivated between groups with easy access to the eating plan, food choices, progress charts and tools to stay on track.

Group: Graham attends Shani Yates’ Slimming World group in Stanton, Bury St Edmunds. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Graham Baalham

Commencing weight 28st 12lbs

Weight at group finals 11st 13lbs

Height: 5 ft 4 in

Weight lost 16st 13lbs in 92 weeks

Graham’s day on a plate 

“So, in March 2024, I rejoined my local Slimming World group with a clear purpose and a completely different mindset. I’d been a member before, however this time I followed the plan closely and what a difference it made. Going to the group each week and hearing how encouraging others were was the motivation I needed.  

“As a single working mum, cooking from scratch every night felt impossible. In the past, we relied on takeaways four nights a week. Being inspired by other members of my Slimming World group, I started prepping my meals in advance. Now, each Sunday I batch cook meals for the week ahead with Nayla-Hope and freeze portions. In fact, one of the best tips I’ve picked up from other members at my Slimming World group is to match my meals to the weather. On cold days, having a hot meal already planned stops me slipping off course. Sunday roasts are a family favourite – chicken, Slimming World roast potatoes, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower cheese from the Slimming World food range.  

“Looking back, I know my weight got really out of hand when I started having children (Micah, now 25, Kyle, 22 and seven year old Nayla-Hope). I’d spent years struggling with my weight and always felt like the biggest person in the room. After believing for so long that losing weight was impossible, I’ve proved to myself that it isn’t. My blood pressure is now in the normal range and I’m sleeping so much better. I’ve gone from a size 28 to a size 12 by eating meals which don’t make me feel as if I’m missing out. One of the most emotional moments was when Nayla-Hope wrapped her arms fully around me for the first time; hearing her say she could finally hug me properly brought me to tears. 

“Losing 13 stone hasn’t just changed my life – it’s transformed my heart health and given me the chance to be the strong, healthy mum I once only dreamed of. Standing here today feels like a beautiful victory.” 

The scale of the issue across the UK is stark. Around 1.4 million people are living today after surviving a heart attack and more than 170,000 people die from heart and circulatory diseases each year¹. Excess weight is a major contributing factor, yet research shows that even modest, steady weight loss can significantly reduce the risk. 

Lisa Maskell is Devinia’s Slimming World Consultant. Lisa says: “I’m so incredibly proud of Devinia. She’s walked back into our group this time with a completely different mindset and watching her embrace every step of her journey has been inspiring. Losing 13 stone is an amazing achievement on its own, but what means even more is seeing her blood pressure come down, her pain ease and her confidence grow week by week. She’s proof that when you combine belief in yourself with the support of group, healthy eating and moving more, life can change in the most powerful ways.”  

Slimming World’s evidence-based programme has been helping people to build healthy habits around food, drink and activity for 56 years. 

Alexandra Clark, Registered Nutritionist at Slimming World, says: “Heart and circulatory diseases cause around a quarter of all UK deaths each year, so stories like Devinia’s show just how life-changing community support and evidence-based guidance can be. Slimming World’s flexible, satisfying eating plan is built around real food and everyday routines, helping members lose weight in a way that feels enjoyable and sustainable. For Devinia, those small, achievable steps have become lasting, heart-healthy habits.” 

Alexandra is sharing five practical ways to help people reduce their risk and feel healthier, fitter and more in control. 

1. Manage your weight. Being a healthy weight is one of the key things you can do to support your heart health and losing just 5% of your body weight can reduce the risk of heart disease.  

2. Limit salt intake. Eating too much salt can increase the risk of high blood pressure, which in turn is a risk factor for heart disease. Cooking from scratch and checking salt levels on labels (adults are recommended no more than 6g of salt a day) can help to reduce salt intake.  

3. Cut down on unhealthy fat. High intakes of saturated fat for example fatty meats, butter, cakes, pastries can lead to high cholesterol levels and weight gain, so we’re advised to reduce our intake of these. Meanwhile, including more omega 3 fats found in oily fish, like salmon and mackerel, plus nuts and seeds, like walnuts and chia seeds, can be beneficial for heart health.  

4. Fill up on fibre. As well as keeping our digestive systems working well, fibre can help with satisfying our appetite helping with weight management, plus some fibre-containing foods are particularly good for our cholesterol levels, such as oats, beans, peas and lentils.  

5. Get active. Moving more is one of the most powerful things you can do for your heart. Regular activity helps lower the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. And it all counts – a brisk walk, a cycle outdoors, a swim or class at the gym, even housework or gardening. Aim to include 1–2 strength building sessions a week too, to support muscle and bone health alongside reducing your risk of heart disease. 

Dr Pauline Swift, Chair of Blood Pressure UK says: “Half of all strokes, a third of heart disease and a high proportion of kidney disease cases are due to high blood pressure. Lowering your blood pressure can be achieved quite easily, by reducing your salt intake and if necessary, taking blood pressure lowering tablets which are mostly very well tolerated. Furthermore, simple improvements in diet and lifestyle such as doing more frequent, short bursts of exercise and eating more fruit and vegetables can really help keep blood pressure down.” 

-ENDS- 

Group: Devinia attends Lisa Maskell’s Slimming World group in Kensal Rise, Greater London. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.  

Devinia Carby 

Starting weight: 24st 12lbs/158.1kg 

Weight lost: 13st/82.8kg 

Current weight: 11st 12lbs/75.3kg 

Height: 5ft 7ins/170cm 

Devinia’s success story features in the current issue of Slimming World Magazine – available on newsstands now with a brand-new look! Join your local Slimming World group or sign up online for even more recipes, guidance and support. To find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.  

Devinia’s day on a plate  

Ray Brown, 40, who’s been named one of Slimming World Icons for 2026 – a competition celebrating the most inspirational members across groups in the UK and Ireland – had such a remarkable transformation that his own family didn’t recognise him at his wedding vow renewal, when he turned up half the size.

Ray, who at his heaviest weighed 24st 5½lbs, says: “I’ve been big since I was a child. Coming from a Caribbean family, making sure the kids were well fed was just part of life – and I was no different. We’d always have big meals with all the trimmings, and I really enjoyed my food.

“Throughout school I was nicknamed ‘Big Ray’. As I got older my weight had a huge impact on my confidence. While I had a strong group of friends around me, I often felt like the spare part who was tagging along with the more confident people. And when I started teaching, the thought of socialising with the other teachers filled me with dread.”

While Ray had tried various weight-loss methods in the past, nothing felt sustainable. He says: “I’ve tried every diet going – juice cleanses and meal-replacement plans where you only had soups and shakes – and I did lose weight for a while, but I was always hungry and miserable. I wasn’t keeping track of my weight loss either, and the lack of accountability gave me the perfect excuse to give up. I was stuck in a repetitive cycle of yo-yo dieting. Then, in 2015 I met my now-wife Amy, and as we spent more time together enjoying meals out, the weight slowly crept up.”

Ray continues: “As I gained weight, everything started to slow down. I’d get out of breath just going up the stairs, and my knees would creak and ache even on short walks – at my age, feeling like that wasn’t a good sign.

“After lockdown lifted in 2022, we decided to take our health more seriously. Our GP referred us to a local Slimming World group, giving us vouchers for 12 weeks’ membership free on the NHS. Amy had previously been a member and always said how lovely her group was, but I felt nervous walking through the doors for the first time. I thought I’d be the only man there and was worried my size would draw attention to me too. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The group environment was nothing like I had imagined – there was a such a mix of people, and everyone was so welcoming.”

Being part of the group helped Ray approach his weight loss with a fresh mindset. He says: “My Consultant, Leanne, has been incredible from the get-go. I felt confident I knew how Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, worked. However, when I explained how I often struggled to stay on track in the past, Leanne went through it with me again and suggested planning my meals for the week and keeping a food diary to help me stick to the plan. I did exactly that – using the app and Slimming World Magazine to plan our meals for the next seven days – and I was amazed when I lost 6½lbs in my first week. That was the motivation I needed to keep going.”

Ray continues: “I used to dip in and out of plans before, but the flexibility of Food Optimising has made it easy to follow, and it’s become something I naturally stick to now without overthinking. I love that I can still enjoy the dishes I grew up on too, such as Brown Stew Chicken with Rice and Peas and homemade Fried Chicken – I’ve just learned to make simple changes like using low-calorie spray instead of oil. I like to meal prep for the week ahead now, and I’ll keep a few Slimming World meals in the freezer for those days when time gets away from me. And if we have a takeaway now, I’ll make a salad to go with it so it feels more balanced rather than something to feel guilty about.”

With Slimming World’s active lifestyle programme, Ray was inspired to incorporate more activity into his routine, at his own pace. He says: “I was very sedentary before. As soon as I started losing weight, I noticed I had more energy. So I began with short walks, which soon turned into longer ones – most days, twice a day – and now I enjoy running too. I run three times a week and can even manage a 10k. It’s the best feeling, especially as I could barely run 10 metres when I first started.”

Losing weight has completely transformed Ray’s life. He says: “For the first time in years, I feel like a completely new version of myself. In fact, my own family didn’t recognise me at my and Amy’s wedding vow renewal last year. Seeing their reactions was a moment I’ll never forget, and it made me realise just how far I’d come. I no longer hide away in my classroom during breaks, and when I’m out on the playground I’ll even join in with the children playing football – without worrying about being in pain afterwards. Thanks to Slimming World, I’m stepping into my forties feeling stronger, healthier and more confident than I ever imagined possible.”

You can view a video of Ray’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Raymond ‘Ray’ Brown  
Age: 40
Height: 5ft 8ins/173cm 
Starting weight: 24st 5.5lbs/341.5lbs/154.9kg    
Current weight: 12st 12.5lbs/180.5lbs/81.9kg 
Weight loss: 11st 7lbs/161lbs/73kg    
Waist size before: 54ins
Waist size now: 32ins
Date joined Slimming World: September 2022

Group: Ray attends the Wollaston group, which is run by Consultant Leanne Onderka.

Before menu
Breakfast: A large bowl of cereal with milk and sugar, followed by two slices of toast spread with butter and jam

Lunch: Shop-bought triple sandwich meal deal with crisps, and a pastry on the side

Dinner: Takeaway pizza with chips followed with sticky toffee pudding and custard

Snacks: Biscuits, chocolate, full-sugar fizzy drink

After menu
Breakfast: Homemade Weetabix cheesecake or All Bran cereal with blueberries and banana

Lunch: Homemade chicken shawarma rice bowl, prepped at the weekend

Dinner: Beef chilli made in the slow cooker or pizza-topped chicken with homemade fries

Snacks: Fresh fruit with yogurt or a Slimming World Hi-fi bar, cooked lean meats, homemade baked oat bites

Eleanor from Middleton in Leeds says: “Like lots of mums, for years I put myself last. My weight crept up after my second baby during lockdown – I went from 13st to nearly 17st in what felt like no time.

“I was struggling with crippling back pain and I felt desperate. I went to the doctor who prescribed weight loss pills, but they did nothing. Diets were even worse – restrictive, miserable and I’d quit by day two. Something had to change.

“I watched my grandma, Joan, transform her life with Slimming World. One evening I joined her to see what it was all about. I expected the room to be full of people her age, yet I was amazed to find other young parents as well as men and women from all walks of life and all ages. I’ve made so many new friends as we’re all united by the same goal of losing weight and leading healthier lifestyles.

“That first week I threw myself into the healthy eating plan and I lost 8lbs. It was a lifechanging moment for me. For the first time, I realised losing weight was possible!”

She adds: “I’ve been conscious of my weight for as long as I can remember. I did ballet as a child and I begged my mum to buy the DVD so I could watch myself. We rushed home, put it on and when my part came, I asked her to point me out. The moment she did, I burst out crying saying: "I don’t want to be the little fat one.”  That insecurity stayed with me for years.

“A lot of people assume I’ve lost weight using injections and they’re always surprised when I explain it’s simply 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 healthier. It’s those practical changes like picking up easy, family‑friendly recipes that have made all the difference."

“Before losing weight, I was constantly exhausted and felt mentally drained. I avoided leaving the house because I didn’t want to be seen – I was so embarrassed about my size. Now, I look forward to going out and getting dressed up. I’m so much more confident – I even spoke at my sister’s baby shower, something I’d never have done before.

“Everything is different now. I’m happier, healthier and confident. I’ve gone from avoiding exercise to running alongside my son while he learns to ride his bike. I no longer have crippling back pain and I don’t get out of breath walking up the stairs.

“We used to rely on takeaways. Now I make healthy versions of our favourites at home – chicken Szechuan, pizza and kebabs. I get inspiration for recipes from TikTok. People think eating healthily is expensive, but a takeaway can cost £30 for one meal. Establishing healthy habits for life is what Slimming World is all about and I’m so glad I found my local group when I did – now I know how to make healthy eating affordable.

Eleanor says so much has changed in such a short time. She says: “Looking back now, if I could say anything to myself at that time, it would be: “You’re about to make one of the best decisions you’ve ever made, and there’s no looking back. It will change your life in the best way possible and it’ll be a lot easier than you expect.”

Eleanor’s story reflects new research showing members aged 18–34 who attend Slimming World groups are losing weight, gaining confidence, improving their physical and mental health and creating healthy lifelong habits.

The study[1] of over 3,200 Slimming World members aged 18-34 found they lost an average of 12 per cent of their body weight – around 2st 1lb (13kg) with many members losing much more. Yet, the research revealed that the benefits of being a Slimming World member go far beyond physical change: 92 per cent feel part of a supportive community; 89 per cent report a healthier relationship with food and 59 per cent say their mental wellbeing has improved.

The findings come as experts warn younger adults face the greatest risk of future weight gain. Global studies predict one in three children, teenagers and young adults could be living with overweight or obesity by 2050[2]. Research also shows that families who share healthy habits are more likely to lose weight and keep it off – with two thirds of members living with children (66 per cent) saying they influenced their children to eat healthier meals[3].

Eleanor, who lives with her partner James and her three children Grace, seven, Evan, four and Laila, two, was inspired so much by the difference losing weight has made to her life, she’s now become a Slimming World Consultant herself, running her own groups in Leeds.

Jane Masefield is Eleanor’s Slimming World Consultant. Jane says: “Eleanor has been nothing short of amazing. Watching her grow in confidence and positivity has been such a joy. From the very start, she embraced the support of her group and quickly became a cheerleader for others. Her honesty, determination, and openness have inspired everyone around her. At Slimming World, we know that real connection makes all the difference, and Eleanor’s story shows that with the right support and a caring community, truly life-changing things can happen.”

[1] A self-selecting sample of 3,262 Slimming World members aged 18-34 were polled between 6^th and 20^th February 2025

[2] Global, regional, and national prevalence of child and adolescent overweight and obesity, 1990–2021, with forecasts to 2050: a forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 - The Lancet

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12631489/

Group: Eleanor attends Jane Masefield’s Slimming World group in Middleton, West Yorkshire. 

Eleanor Brown

Starting weight: 16st 9lbs/105.7kg

Weight lost: 6st 4lbs/39.9kg

Current weight: 10st 5lbs/65.8kg

Height: 5ft 4in/163cm

· After living through infertility, family bereavement and lockdown, Claire says she’s completely confident that the healthy habits she’s learned at Slimming World will last a lifetime

· The 40-year-old not only transformed her health but enabled her to become the active mum she always dreamed of being.

A mum-of-two from Airdrie has achieved an extraordinary transformation, losing 18st 7½lbs going from 29st 5lbs to 10st 11½lbs and has been crowned Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2025.

Claire Kane knew she needed to make a change when her weight began to affect her health and her dream of starting a family. She says: “I married my husband Aaron in 2009. I was happy, but I kept gaining weight. At almost 30st, I could barely walk 200 metres without feeling out of breath. We longed for a family, but it just wasn’t happening for us.”

After seven painful years of infertility caused by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, Claire joined Slimming World with the goal of losing weight to qualify for IVF. Claire says: “I’d tried other diets, but nothing seemed to stick. Walking into group was daunting, I thought everyone would be judging my size, but I was welcomed with open arms. When my Consultant explained the plan, it felt realistic and achievable – something just clicked.”

Nine months later, after losing 8st 7½lbs, Claire conceived naturally. She recalls: “I couldn’t believe it. Aaron and I had waited years for this moment – we were overjoyed.”

But life threw Claire a devastating curveball when she lost her dad to cancer. Grieving and caring for her newborn Olivia, now nine, old habits crept back. And then four years later after welcoming her second miracle baby, Sophie, now five, the COVID-19 lockdown brought new challenges. She says: “With a toddler, a baby and Aaron working as a key worker, life felt overwhelming. I turned to convenience foods, and the weight piled on. I was terrified I was killing myself. I couldn’t join in playing at the park with the girls and I wasn’t the mum I wanted to be for them.”

Determined to change, Claire returned to her Slimming World group in August 2022, led by Consultant Irene Mitchell. This time, she made a promise to stay to the group every week – something she calls a ‘gamechanger’.

“Everyone understood how I felt. We shared recipes, tackled challenges together and celebrated every milestone. That support pushed me further than I ever thought possible.”

Claire, who works in banking, embraced Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, swapping beige plates for colourful meals and learning mindful habits that transformed her relationship with food. She Says:  “Before I would start the day with sugary cereal, have a package sandwich for lunch and end it with anything I could find in the freezer like frozen nuggets and chips. Then I’d sit in front of the TV at night snacking on chocolate and crisps. Now I focus on satisfying family meals and prioritise protein that keeps me fuller for longer. The plan and the conversations we had in my Slimming World group helped me to understand my habits around food, and I learned how to incorporate all my favourites in a healthy, sustainable way.”

In the group Claire was inspired to get more active. She says: “The thought of exercise was daunting to me, but Irene explained that with Slimming World’s active lifestyle programme it was more about getting started at my own pace. As the weight came off, I started using the gym equipment at work on my lunchbreak. Now I have so much fun running around with my kids and over the past year I’ve taken part in several challenges including my local 10k Race for Life. Exercise is just part of my everyday life now, and I know it will support me to keep my weight off long term.”

Today, Claire weighs 10st 11½lbs and says winning Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2025 is beyond her wildest dreams. She says: “If you’d told me at almost 30st that I’d be here, I’d never have believed you. People ask if I used weight-loss drugs or surgery – which I would’ve qualified for, but they always terrified me. I’m always proud to say I did it with Slimming World – it’s been one hell of a journey!”

Now, Claire is living the life she dreamed of. She continues: “I’m the mum who can chase my girls to the swings and swim in the ocean. Last year we went to Disney World. I walked 20,000 steps a day and went on every ride without worrying if I’d fit. My proudest achievement, though, is my beautiful children. At my biggest, I almost lost hope of having a family. Now, I’m giving them a healthy, happy future and I’ll be here to enjoy it. Slimming World gave me the life I dreamed of, and I want others to know: no matter how big the mountain seems, you can climb it one step at a time.”

Claire hopes her story will inspire others who feel the same way she once did:
“If you’re sitting there thinking it’s too late or too hard, please know it isn’t. I’ve been at rock bottom, and now I’m standing here as Woman of the Year. If I can do it, so can you.”

Group: Claire attends the Airdrie Slimming World Group run by Consultant Irene Mitchell

Claire Kane:

Starting weight:  29st 5lbs (184.1kg)

Weight loss: 18st 7½lbs (117.7kg)

Weight now:  10st 11½lbs (63.5kg)

Height: 5ft 6in

Joining date: 22nd August 2022

Date achieved target: 1^st July 2025

Age: 40

Before menu:

Breakfast: Large bowl of chocolate cereal with milk

Lunch: Sandwich using thick cut white bread and with butter, tuna and lots of mayonnaise. Chocolate bar and crisps.

Dinner: Frozen chicken goujons and frozen chips

Snacks: Family-size chocolate bar, crisps and biscuits 

After menu:

Breakfast: Slimming World pancakes with fruit and yogurt and a milky coffee.

Lunch: Ham salad packed with pickles, lettuce, cucumber, onion, peppers, grated carrot and pink pickled onions. 

Dinner: Chicken Fajitas made with tandoori chicken, peppers, onions in a Slimming World wrap bought from Iceland with homemade chips.

Snacks: Protein yogurt, Slimming World Hi-fi bar and a small chocolate bar.

“I put a smile on my face during the day for my students and colleagues but once I got home, I reached for frozen pizzas and high calorie ready meals, and I wouldn’t think anything of eating a whole packet of croissants in one sitting.

“Slowly, my weight crept up and I was diagnosed with depression. I’d had a form of arthritis from an early age which affected my joints and feet and my skin, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, asthma and sleep apnoea on the top of my existing hearing loss. I eventually had to retire due to my health. After leaving my job, I isolated myself. I rarely left the house, and I lost all confidence in myself.

“After living in England for three decades, I became a British citizen in 2021. I was proud and excited, but my self-esteem was once again knocked on seeing photos from the ceremony and realising how big I looked.

“Only a few days later, I received results from a blood test which confirmed I was living with type 2 diabetes. My doctor also told me my weight put me at greater risk of developing further health conditions, including heart issues. I was put in touch with a social prescriber who told me about a programme where I could join Slimming World for free.”

Slimming World on Referral is a partnership scheme with the NHS which provides people living with overweight or obesity with access to a 12-week weight loss plan from Slimming World. It’s available in 72 areas across the UK.

Kheira says: “It wasn’t until January 2023 when I first walked through my Slimming World group doors. I was very nervous, but my Consultant Angela greeted me like a friend.

“After Angela explained the healthy eating plan, it felt like something I could do and I was excited. As soon as the group ended, I went and bought fresh fruit and veg, lean meats and other healthy buys to try out all the Slimming World recipes which had caught my eye, like cottage pie and crustless quiche.

"And as the weight came off, my confidence and belief in myself grew. I started to contribute more in my Slimming World group, like sharing photos of the recipes I cooked at home, and going to the group soon became the highlight of my week.

“As well as improving my mental wellbeing, by losing weight, I’m sleeping better, and after a routine blood test I was told my type 2 diabetes was in remission. I still take immunosuppressant medication and have to take care of my health but I’m no longer hiding myself away. My old life is now unrecognisable to me!”

Kheira’s experience backs up research published in the journal Archives of Diabetes & Obesity showing that people with type 2 diabetes can improve their diabetes management by making healthy changes to their diet and physical activity and losing weight following Slimming World’s programme.

The research revealed, of the members surveyed, 33.9% of those with type 2 diabetes reported their diabetes had gone into remission; this increased to 51% for those who’d lost at least 10% of their body weight; 61% were able to reduce or stop taking their diabetes medication and 81% saw improvements in their blood glucose (also known as blood sugar levels) management.

Diabetes UK estimates that 1.3 million people are currently living with type 2 diabetes but are yet to be diagnosed.

Dr Sarah-Elizabeth Bennett, Senior Research Associate at Slimming World, says: “The study shows how 80% of the Slimming World members polled reported an improved quality of life while managing health conditions after following the weight loss support programme.

“Slimming World’s flexible healthy eating plan can be easily tailored for members like Kheira to fit their individual needs and to make sure it’s in line with the dietary advice from their healthcare professional. Members living with diabetes are given tailored resources – including a dedicated booklet created in partnership with Diabetes UK. Slimming World’s partnership with Diabetes UK strengthens our support for members living with diabetes and enables us to further deepen our understanding of the challenges and misconceptions people living with diabetes face.”

Douglas Twenefour, Head of Clinical at Diabetes UK, says: “We are proud to be working with Slimming World, supporting members who are living with all types of diabetes, or at risk of type 2 diabetes. By combining our expertise on weight loss, long-term healthy eating and diabetes, we are committed to helping people build healthier habits and live healthier lives.”

Angela Walker, who runs the Desborough Slimming World group and is Kheira’s Consultant, says: “Since walking through those doors almost two years ago, Kheira has changed dramatically. Yes, she’s lost weight and improved her health which is incredible, but she’s also flourished as a person. Kheira is vibrant, kind, and compassionate, and now has the confidence to share and help other members with their own weight-loss journey. I’m so proud of Kheira, and happy to have played a role in helping her create healthy habits for life!”

Kheira Ghachi

Height: 5ft (152cm)

Weight Loss: 7st 5lbs (46.7kg)

Joining weight: 14st 10½ lbs (93.7kg)

Current weight: 7st 5½lbs (46.9kg)

BEFORE

Breakfast: Up to four pastries or four slices of toast with chocolate spread and a hot chocolate

Lunch: Shop bought sandwiches and salads with full fat dressings

Dinner: Frozen pizza or a shop bought high calorie ready meal

Snacks: Croissants and chocolate bars, crisps and sweets

AFTER

Breakfast: Weetabix or oats (overnight, baked, or cooked) served with fat free yogurt and lots of fresh berries, and a coffee with almond milk

Lunch: homemade salad using my own fat free dressing followed by fruit

Dinner: Homemade meals such as vegetable stir fry, curry, cottage pie, or spaghetti bolognese using wholemeal pasta or brown rice, or Slimming World chips and crustless quiche

Snacks: Fruit with fat free Greek yogurt

For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.  

“Looking back, I sometimes can’t believe my body carried that extra 7st through such a tough time. Taking control of my health with the support of my Slimming World group helped me feel ‘seen’ again. My confidence was fading fast. At my lowest point I would enter a meeting room at work with my head down and try to blend into the background, now I stake my place! I feel strong, empowered and I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved.” 

“Although I’d tried losing weight before, this time I was determined to make a change. I found a Slimming World group locally and my husband Ian agreed to join with me. I lost 5lbs in the first week. That was a lightbulb moment for me,” says Nicola, who works as a Director of Human Resources for a multi academy trust in the North East of England. 

She says: “I’ve struggled with my weight since my late teens, after I stopped competitive swimming. As a child, I used to train for hours every day, but when that ended, my appetite didn’t. I kept eating large portions, and without the exercise to balance it, the weight crept on. By my early twenties, I was wearing size 20 clothes and had accepted being the ‘larger than life’ friend even though inside, I felt anything but. My knees and hips ached constantly and I spent eight months on crutches after surgery to repair cartilage damage. I was also on medication for high blood pressure, as any strenuous activity triggered prolonged palpitations which terrified me.” 

“After losing my dad in December 2023, Ian and I made a spontaneous decision to get married and, in September 2024, we had our dream Mamma Mia-style wedding in a whitewashed chapel on a tiny private island in Kos. I’d always hoped for a family of my own, but after several rounds of fertility treatment, it wasn’t meant to be. I had no diagnosed conditions, but being significantly overweight may have affected my chances. Today, I feel incredibly lucky to have three amazing stepchildren through Ian, who’s been by my side every step of our Slimming World journey. Together, we’ve lost 12st.” 

Nicola says: “Losing my dad was one of the main motivators to join Slimming World. He’d be so proud at what I’ve achieved and how much healthier I am today. I’ve gone from a size 20 to a size 10. Since losing weight I successfully completed the summit of Catbells in the Spring of 2025. Something I have always wanted to do.  

“I’ve learnt that I need the support of others around me to help maintain my focus and give me encouragement. I have found that at Slimming World. I love my group, we support each other both in group and through our Facebook page. I also know now that I need the accountability for me, my group and my Consultant Vicky who’s been such a star throughout. Vicky invests so much time and energy into everyone, I feel I owe it to her to be successful too, not just to myself.” 

Nicola’s experience backs up the findings of a surveyⁱ which shows that women going through the menopause can successfully lose weight by making healthy lifestyle changes following Slimming World’s programme.  Over three quarters (79%) of the members questioned who were going through the perimenopause or had experienced the menopause said they had successfully lost weight with Slimming World.  Members currently experiencing the perimenopause who responded to the survey reported the top three most common symptoms as feeling tired or lacking in energy (51%), difficulty concentrating (38%), and difficulty sleeping (37%). 

Although Nicola started to experience the perimenopause at 52 and the average age that women reach the menopause in the UK is 51, this can vary and for some women it can be much earlier. For women experiencing symptoms, it can have a big impact on relationships, work and it can be especially challenging if you’re trying to lose weight. The findings of the survey revealed 85% of women said that in their experience, weight loss is more challenging during the perimenopause and after the menopause. 

Dr Amanda Avery, Slimming World’s Health and Research Consultant Dietitian, says: “We know the menopause can be a challenging time for many women. The support provided by Slimming World helps members feel healthier, confident and in control throughout this life stage. The programme empowers members to manage symptoms through healthier eating and regular activity. With tailored support, a wealth of resources and practical tips, members can manage symptoms, maintain a healthier weight and build lasting positive lifestyle habits. Our research shows weight loss is possible during the menopause.” 

Vicky Robson runs the Town End Farm Working Mens Club in Sunderland and is Nicola’s Consultant. She says: “Nicola is a true inspiration to everyone in our group. Her incredible 7st weight loss during the menopause shows what’s possible with determination and support. She’s living proof that you can take control of your health at any stage of life – and do it without relying on weight loss drugs. We all feel proud to know Nicola and I feel privileged to have played a small part in helping her rediscover the fabulous woman she’s always been.” 

Nicola attends the Town End Farm Working Mens Club in Sunderland on Saturday mornings run by Consultant Vicky Robson. To find out more about Vicky’s groups, running on Tuesday evenings at 7pm, Wednesday at 9.30am or Saturday mornings at 8am and 9.30am, call Vicky on 07496 968689.  

For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.  

Nicola Graham 

Starting weight: 16st 13lbs (107.5kg) 

Weight lost: 7st (44.5kg) 

Current weight: 9st 13lbs (63kg) 

Height: 5ft 6in 

BEFORE MENU

Breakfast: Often skipped  

Lunch: Fast food chicken nuggets or crisps high in fat and salt, or supermarket frozen pizza 

Dinner: Takeaway pizza, creamy curries with Persian rice fried off with butter until crispy, poppadom and pickles, homemade lasagne with rich béchamel sauce, full fat steak mince, full-fat cheese and cheesy garlic bread 

Dessert: Share-size bar of chocolate or ice cream 

Snacks and drinks: 1-2 glasses of wine per evening, full fat crisps  

AFTER MENU 

Breakfast: Overnight oats with plenty of fruit and low-fat yoghurt or Slimming World's full English breakfast (two slices of lean bacon with the fat trimmed off, Slimming World sausages, grilled tomatoes, spinach, two poached eggs and mushrooms – most items cooked in the air fryer)  

Lunch: Fresh salad with smoked salmon or lean meat, homemade low-fat dressing with no added sugar  

Dinner: Slimming World roast chicken dinner with fresh vegetables and low-fat homemade gravy 

Dessert: Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries with low-fat yoghurt 

Snacks and drinks: Fruit, high fibre cereal bar, water, de-caffeinated coffee, gin with slimline tonic 

Anne Day, 82, who’s been named Slimming World’s Diamond Member of the Year 2025, says for years her weight was holding her back from truly living life to the full. It wasn’t until her brother-in-law – a retired doctor – saw her struggling with a chest infection and suggested that losing weight could improve her health that Anne decided it was time to make a change – for good.

Anne, who at her heaviest weighed nearly 17st, says she’d been overweight all her life: “For as long as I can remember, my weight was something I’d worry about. I had tried various diets over the years, including being put on a restricted plan by the college surgery during my teacher training back in 1961 – nothing ever worked though.

“After having my two sons, my weight continued to creep up. I managed to lose weight at times, however keeping it off was always the hard part. Everything I tried felt too restrictive, which made it difficult to stick to anything long term.”

Anne says she felt she’d lost control of her weight and eventually stopped weighing herself to avoid facing up to her size: “I’d become so unhealthy that I hated what I saw in the mirror. I’d do anything to avoid being photographed or catching my reflection in a shop window while out and about. I even gave up swimming – something I’d always loved doing – as I couldn’t bear the thought of anyone seeing me in my costume, or even seeing myself in one. I knew I needed to start looking after myself when my health started suffering too.”

In April 2010, Anne decided to join her local Slimming World group after getting a leaflet through her door. She says: “I had heard of Slimming World through a lady at the monthly lunch group I go to. She had been recommended by her doctor and was seeing fantastic results. So, I felt confident that it could work for me too.”

Anne continues: “I’ll always remember the welcome I received from my Consultant, Christine, and the other members in the group, that first day. I was so anxious and worried about being judged about my weight, however, I immediately felt safe and accepted. Being treated with such respect and grace confirmed I’d made the best decision – it’s one of the reasons why I continue to go all these years later.”

On her first day at the group, Anne set the target weight she wanted to achieve and hasn’t looked back since. She says: “I was dreading stepping on the scales and felt ashamed when I saw that I weighed nearly 17st. Christine was great at reassuring me everything was confidential and that nobody would be judging me – and she was right. Everyone in the group was so welcoming and it felt nice to be in a space where everyone was rooting for one another. Listening to everyone talk about their own journeys gave me the encouragement I needed that first week.”

Having left the first group feeling inspired, Anne was able to get stuck straight into Slimming World’s healthy eating plan. She says: “Food Optimising was massive breath of fresh air. I loved how much freedom there was – as there were so many foods I could eat without weighing or counting them – and that I was still eating a balanced diet. I’ve always loved cheese and could easily overindulge at times, so knowing I could still enjoy it, just in measured amounts, made the plan easier to follow – and stick to.”

Anne continues: “Cooking has always brought me joy, and my husband Anthony and I grow our own fruit and vegetables – which we love using to try new recipes from the Slimming World cookbooks I’ve collected over the years. Having fresh, seasonal ingredients at our fingertips, and cooking healthy meals from scratch every day has helped me stay committed to eating well. It makes it more exciting too, I like to experiment with different ways of cooking some of my favourite recipes, like a fish pie or pasta bolognese, too. I also buy a copy of the Slimming World Magazine each month and enjoy picking out different recipes to try, and I love scrolling through the app for new ideas too.”

After reaching her target weight in 2011, and with the help of Slimming World’s Slim for Life plan – a personalised programme designed to help members move confidently from weight loss to weight maintenance – Anne felt she had the structure and support she needed to sustain her weight loss for 14 years. 

Anne says: “Being surrounded by people who genuinely understood what I was going through kept me motivated throughout my journey – especially when I reached my target weight and needed that extra support. My Consultant now, Helen, is great at helping me break down any barriers and finding the right balance to maintain my weight loss – I can enjoy a holiday or a meal out, without worrying about what I’m eating or restricting myself.

Slimming World’s physical activity support programme was a great tool to help Anne maintain her health and stay active well into her 80s. She says: “As I started losing weight, I felt confident enough to get moving at a pace I was comfortable at.

“I used to enjoy cycling and playing tennis – and while those activities have slowed down, I still like to keep active. These days, I spend time gardening and do my exercises in our hot tub each evening. I love swimming too, and I no longer hide away from being seen in my costume. I walk everywhere now, and volunteer at the local village hall, where I help with setting up for different community events. I’ve always enjoyed making my own clothes too, and now I get real sense of joy from wearing the things I make, rather than making clothes for comfort.

“Losing weight has truly set me free – joining Slimming World was the best decision I made for myself. I’m no longer hiding away from photos, I’m wearing more colourful, exciting clothes, and I’m the healthiest and fittest I’ve ever been, even at 82. I want to keep enjoying each day as it comes for as long as I can – and thanks to Slimming World, I feel like I can!”

You can view a video of Anne’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Anne Day 
Age: 82
Height: 5ft 8ins/173cm
Starting weight: 16st 10lbs/234lbs/106.1kg
Current weight: 10st 7.5lbs/147.5lbs/66.9kg
Weight loss: 6st 2.5lbs/86.5lbs/39.2kg   
Dress size before: 24
Dress size now: 14
Date joined Slimming World: April 2010
Date achieved target: June 2011
Time at target: 14 years

Group: Anne attends the Leyburn group, which is run by Consultant Helen Dinsdale, and was previously run by Consultant Christine Spencer and Annette Wing.

Before menu
Breakfast: A large bowl of cereal with milk and sugar, or porridge with golden syrup, or two slices of toast with marmalade or honey
Lunch: Tinned soup or a cheeseboard with chutney or salad with full- fat mayonnaise and bread, and a glass of cider
Dinner: Roast chicken with skin and fat left on, roasted potatoes using oil, butter-coated vegetables
Snacks: Biscuits with black coffee, tea with a piece of cake or a scone with butter and jam, followed with biscuits, homemade fruit crumble with sugar or syrup and ice cream. Glass of white wine or gin and tonic

After menu
Breakfast: Fresh fruit, with wholegrain cereal followed by two fried eggs and sliced tomatoes with a cup of black coffee
Lunch: Homemade vegetable soup or mixed salad, or beans on toast with reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
Dinner: Homemade fish pie or roast dinner, Slimming World chips or beef pasta bolognese using 5% fat beef
Snacks: Black coffee with a biscuit or homegrown fruit with fat-free natural yogurt, non-alcoholic gin or small glass of white wine

The 56-year-old says: “The drug did exactly what it promised. I ate less and I lost weight accordingly, but I started to question whether what I was doing was a fully conscious act. I’m not even the kind of person who reaches for a paracetamol when I have a headache, so relying on medication to manage my weight began to make me feel uncomfortable.

“Just two weeks after I stopped the jabs, my hunger and food cravings came rushing back and my old eating patterns returned. I felt disappointed in myself all over again and the pounds crept back on. I knew I needed something more permanent that would help me change my habits, not just suppress my appetite.”

Having struggled with her weight for most of her life, it was the devastating loss of her brother Vinny from leukaemia in 2023 which proved to be Sandie’s final straw. She says: “When my brother suddenly passed away, I knew I had to make a change to my own health.  I’d tried to lose weight for years – I was a yoyo dieter and had tried every diet you can think of, only to pile the weight back on afterwards. I now realise that those diets never worked because they were quick fixes which didn’t give me any time or help to make lasting changes.”

Sandie says: “The difference I feel since joining Slimming World couldn’t be greater. Instead of missing out I can enjoy satisfying meals with my family and friends. I now feel equipped with the knowledge to make smart choices and the support to keep going when things get tough. Best of all, I’ve achieved my weight loss through consistent healthy eating and lifestyle changes I can maintain for life, not from something that only works in the short-term.”

While Sandie had been a member of Slimming World before, she would leave after being weighed. This time staying for the support session and being part of the group proved to be a turning point. “It was a revelation,” Sandie says. “I learnt so much from the other members and from my Consultant Scott and I quickly developed strategies of my own that worked for my lifestyle. I started planning ahead before going out for meals by looking at the menu before I got to the restaurant.”

Sandie, who lives with her partner CJ, 58, and her 24-year-old daughter Lauryn, has lost 4st with Slimming World and has maintained her weight loss for over a year. She says: “Although I’ve lost weight before, this time is different. I’ve built healthy habits that stick and added activity into my routine. As a pescatarian, I find Slimming World caters well for me. I’m stronger, happier and more confident because I’ve found a way to maintain my weight loss that works for me – and I’ve made friends while doing so.

“The short-term fixes I tried in the past never worked but the support and nurturing atmosphere I found in group helped to forge a lasting change that I know has now become a lifestyle for me and my family.”

Mounting evidence shows that weight regain is a serious risk for those stopping weight loss medication. A University of Oxford study found that most people who stop taking weight loss medication regain most of the weight they lost within a year – and often have full regain within two years – unless they make sustained lifestyle changes.

Sandie’s story demonstrates the importance of support when it comes to weight loss. Slimming World’s evidence-based programme has been helping people to build healthy habits around food, drink and activity for 56 years. Members, including those who join while taking weight loss injections are helped to build and embed healthy habits around food, drink and activity. For members taking weight loss drugs specifically, this will ensure they have the tools, knowledge and confidence to maintain their weight loss long after the medication stops.

A recent poll of Slimming World Consultants reveals that over a third (37 per cent)[1] have welcomed new members who are using weight loss injections.

A separate member poll[2], completed by 104 people who joined Slimming World while using weight loss injections, found that 63 per cent joined specifically to build healthy, sustainable habits to maintain their weight loss long term and 82 per cent now feel more confident that they’ll be able to maintain their weight loss when they stop taking the medication.

Carolyn Pallister, Registered Dietitian and Head of Nutrition, Research & Health at Slimming World, says: “Research shows that being part of a supportive group significantly boosts your chances of long-term weight loss success. While weight loss medications can play a role, lasting success depends on long-term behaviour change. That’s why our groups are so vital, they provide the tools, knowledge and compassionate support to help members to build healthy habits for life. Members gain confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging that helps them make positive long-term lifestyle changes.”

Scott Smith is Sandie’s Slimming World Consultant. Scott says: “Sandie has been nothing short of inspirational. Watching her transformation has been an absolute joy – not just in terms of her weight loss, but in the confidence and positivity she now radiates. From day one on her journey this time, she embraced the support of the group and quickly became a source of encouragement for others. Her honesty, determination and willingness to share her journey have made a real impact on the other members. At Slimming World, our groups offer something truly powerful: real connection and Sandie’s success story is proof that when you commit to change and surround yourself with the right support, incredible things can happen.”

For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

-ENDS- 

[1] A self-selecting sample of 853 Slimming World Consultants completed an online survey between 23rd and 31st July 2025

[2] A self-selecting sample of 104 Slimming World members who joined their local group while taking weight injections completed an online survey asking for their feedback about their experience were polled via Slimming World’s member website between 23^rd and 31^st July 2025

Group: Sandie attends the Hampton Slimming World group in Peterborough. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Sandie Simms

Starting weight: 15st 8lbs/218lbs/99kg

Weight lost: 4st/56lbs/25kg

Current weight: 11st 8lbs/162lbs/74kg

Height: 5ft 10in/178cm

Before menu

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs made with butter, smoked salmon, melon, blueberries

Mid-morning: Biscuits, crisps, chocolate bar or hot chocolate

Lunch: A meal deal – sandwich, crisps and a fizzy drink

Dinner: Takeaway or vegetarian spaghetti bolognese made with sauce from a jar and full fat cheese on top. A glass of red wine

Snacks and drinks: Crisps, chocolate and cola, iced buns and sweets

After menu

Breakfast: Two poached eggs on two slices of wholemeal toast without butter, sometimes with smoked salmon, three vegan sausages, baked beans, mushrooms

Lunch:  Grilled fish prepared the night before with Slimming World sweet potato chips and a fresh green salad

Dinner: Vegetarian bolognese cooked from scratch with lots of vegetables, spaghetti, low-fat cheese served with a mixed salad

Snacks: Melon, blueberries, boiled eggs, breadsticks

Before joining Slimming World, mother-of-two Helen Dinsdale had been overweight for as long as she could remember. When she was younger, she had a paper round and got excited to spend her earnings on a pack of muffins, that she planned to eat on the way home before anyone could find out. However, one day when she returned to the shop, the manager told her that her mum had asked them not to sell her anything. She says: “My mum was desperately trying to help. It was quite embarrassing though, as my friends were with me when the manager had to refuse serving me.”

Helen, who lives with her husband Mark, son Douglas, 10, and six-year-old daughter, Ruby, had yo-yoed with her weight throughout her adult life and put weight on after both of her pregnancies. She says: “I joined Slimming World to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. I never really liked seeing pictures of myself and I found it tricky to find clothes that I liked when out shopping.

“After having my second child, I was making excuses not to help my husband, who’s a farmer, with tasks like rounding up the sheep, as I knew I just wouldn’t have the energy for it. I’d tell him our baby was asleep or that I was already busy when really, I was avoiding getting out of breath and in pain.”

Helen joined the Leyburn Slimming World group in 2018 and hasn’t looked back. She says: “I’d been a Slimming World member in my early 20s, but I didn’t take it seriously and didn’t make the lifestyle changes needed to succeed. This time however, I joined the group that my mum and sister were attending and had a completely different mindset; I was determined and ready to give it my all. Everyone at group, including the Consultant welcomed me straight away and have supported me ever since.”

Helen has since lost 5st 7½lbs (35kg) by following Slimming World’s healthy eating plan and can still eat meals that the whole family likes, such as spaghetti Bolognese and fish and chips.

Helen’s also increased her fitness levels. She says: “Slimming World helped me discover exercise that was suitable for me and that I enjoy. I loved that it fit around my family life too. I now swim laps while my children have their own lessons. I also go to jazz fit sessions regularly and when I’m helping my husband feed the cows and round up the sheep, he’ll be on his quad bike while I run around after them.

“I caught the running bug during lockdown after completing a 5km running challenge. Now, I can run 10 miles without stopping.

“Last year’s Race for Life was especially meaningful. Just three days before, my mum was diagnosed with Myeloma – a type of blood cancer. I ran with her name on my back – it was emotional, and it gave me the strength to complete the race.”

After successfully losing weight with Slimming World, Helen trained to become a Consultant in 2021 to help people achieve their own weight loss goals. She now runs the Slimming World group in Leyburn every Wednesday.

Slimming World’s physical activity support programme helps members to find an exercise and fits their lifestyle. Slimming World is an official sponsor for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 2025 and has been working with the charity for more than a decade, helping to raise more than £25m in fundraising.

Inspired by Helen’s story? Sign up for your local 2026 Race for Life and help fund life-saving cancer research.  To find out more, visit raceforlife.org     

Sadly, just six weeks later tragedy struck when their dad Todd passed away. Sam, who’s since lost an astounding 11st, dropping from 21st 7lbs to 10st 7lbs, says: “It was an incredibly difficult time for us, and we could’ve easily used it as a reason to give in but continuing with Slimming World gave us purpose. Being part of group helped us cope and stay on track, and being in control of our weight when life didn’t feel very in control really helped. We know our dad would be so proud of us.”

Their mum Jane has also played a big role in cheering them on: “She calls us every single week after our Slimming World group to ask how we’ve got on,” says Sam. “She’s our biggest cheerleader.”

Anne, who’s lost an incredible 11st 3.5lbs in total, after going from 22st 4.5lbs to 11st 1lb, says while their bond has been key to their journey, they couldn’t have done it without their local Slimming World group and their Consultant, Susan Simpson. She says: “Our group became a safe space where we could talk about any potential hurdles that might be coming up and how we could work around them, like prepping our food or planning ahead in busy times. It’s a place where there’s never any judgement. I find being in the group helps to keep me accountable and sets me up for a successful week ahead. It’s not just about you though, you learn so much from the other members – often the challenges they share are things you’ve experienced or worried about too, so you learn from how they handle them and feel less alone. We’ve made friends for life there. We laugh, we cry, and we lift each other up.”

Anne and Sam followed Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan, which empowers members to enjoy everyday foods like pasta, potatoes, fruit, lean meats and more – all without counting calories or feeling restricted. Anne continues: “We still eat satisfying meals. It doesn’t feel like a diet – it just feels like we’ve learned how to eat well now. Our meals are always a healthy balance of carbs, protein and fibre and are packed full of goodness.”

As the weight started to come off the sisters started to think about becoming more active Sam says: “In the beginning, we weren’t even thinking about exercising – it felt far too daunting, but Susan explained the huge list of benefits to being active on top of supporting our weight loss, like improving our mental wellbeing and getting stronger. Slimming World’s Body Magic programme was perfect for us as it’s all about building up at a pace that’s right for you and we loved that it didn’t mean we had to go to the gym every day, which wouldn’t have been right for us at all. Talking about the ways other people in our group had found to move more removed some of the fears we had and we realised being active is something everyone can do – you’ve just got to find the right activity. We started with short walks and then discovered trampolining fitness classes, which we love. We never thought we’d enjoy exercise, but now we genuinely look forward to it!”

When Anne’s big day arrived in November 2023, both sisters felt confident and ready to celebrate everything they’d achieved.  Anne says: “Walking down the aisle with Sam beside me felt like a dream come true, not just because I was getting married – but because we’d worked so hard to become the healthiest, happiest versions of ourselves.”

Susan Simpson, their Slimming World Consultant, says she’s been moved and inspired by the sisters’ dedication and positivity: “Anne and Sam are such a special part of our group. They show up every week with kindness, humour and determination – even during the hardest times. Watching them grow in confidence and become such inspirational members in group has been incredible. I was honoured to be invited to Anne’s wedding, it was such a beautiful day and seeing them both beam with pride made it truly unforgettable.”

Now, with a newfound confidence and zest for life the sisters say they feel like completely different people – both physically and emotionally. They are the active mums they always wanted to be and are looking forward to a happy and healthy future together with their families.

You can hear more about Sam and Anne's story here

Group: Anne and Samantha attend the Chadwell-St-Mary group, Saturday morning Slimming World group run by Consultant Susan Simpson.

Samantha Monk:
Starting weight:  21st 7lbs (137.8kg)
Weight loss: 11st (69.8kg)
Weight now:  10st 7lbs (67.9kg)
Height: 5ft 5in
Joining date: 13^th August 2022
Date achieved target: 21st December 2024
Age: 39

Before menu:
Breakfast: 2 slices of white thick cut toast with lots of butter. A croissant and energy drink
Lunch: Sandwich using thick cut white bread and with butter, ham, cheese, coleslaw and lots of salad cream. Chocolate bar, crisps and a muller corner yogurt.
Dinner: Frozen pizza, frozen chips, onion rings and garlic bread.
Snacks: chocolate bar. 2 cherry Bakewells, large bag of sweets. Share bag of Doritos with a whole pot of sour cream dip. 

After menu:
Breakfast: Ham, cheese, onion and mushroom egg muffins
Lunch: Chicken and bacon pasta, packed with salad - lettuce, cucumber, onion, peppers, grated carrot, beetroot, and cheese. With a homemade dressing. 
Dinner: Beef strip ramen noodle bowl with boiled eggs, packed with veg - mushrooms, spring onions, baby corn, cabbage and mangetout.
Snacks: A pack of baked crisps. 2 Slimming World Hi-fi bars, Muller light yogurt, and a small chocolate bar.

Anne Clarke 
Starting weight:  22st 4.5lbs (142.2kg)
Weight loss: 11st 3.5lbs (71.7kg)
Weight now:  11st 1lb (70.4kg)
Height: 5ft 4.5in
Joining date: 20th August 2022
Date achieved target: 15th Feb 2025
Age: 41

Before menu:
Breakfast: 3 crumpets with lots of butter and marmite. A croissant and energy drink
Lunch: 2 white rolls with cheese, ham, lettuce and mayo, crisps, a cake, pork pie
Dinner: Chicken Kiev, chips, baked beans and onion rings 
Snacks: Multiple chocolate bars, share bag of crisps with a dip, cake and a share bag of chocolate

After menu:
Breakfast: Ham and eggs 
Lunch: Slimming World wraps filled with turkey slices and grated carrot. 2 boiled eggs, cucumber, beetroot.
Dinner: Homemade sweet and sour-style chicken, mash, peppers, mushrooms and courgette.
Snacks: Light vanilla yogurt, roast chicken bites, Slimming World Hi-fi bar, chocolate bar, fresh fruit. 

– ends –

“Although I’d tried Slimming World in the past, I’d stopped going to group after three weeks and never really followed the plan. I realise now that by never staying for the group support, I wasn’t learning anything about the plan, my relationship with food or how to change my habits. My doctor suggested I try Slimming World on a 12-week referral programme. Then Nikki said she wanted to join a group, and while I’ll admit I thought it would be a waste of time, I went along with her for support.” 

Slimming World on Referral is a partnership scheme with the NHS which provides people living with overweight or obesity with access to a 12-week weight loss plan from Slimming World. It’s available in 72 areas across the UK.

Mark says: “When we arrived at our local Slimming World group and met Sarah, our Consultant, my view soon changed. There was such an electric atmosphere and everything clicked. There were lots of other guys there who were so supportive and I was blown away by everyone’s journeys. I left feeling inspired and feeling that I could really make this work. As soon as I found out all my favourite meals were still on the menu, so long as they were cooked in a healthy way, I knew this was a plan I could stick with.

“I lost 8lbs that first week. I soon realised that by talking to other members and joining in I could help other people. Knowing everyone was genuinely rooting for me was incredible. I genuinely wish the sessions were longer because I love it so much. Nikki and I have made some great friends in group and all the encouragement and support keeps me motivated – I know I’d have struggled if I was finding my own way. 

“As someone living with type 2 diabetes, I was given tailored resources – including a dedicated booklet created in partnership with Diabetes UK. It made it easy to adapt the Slimming World plan to my needs while staying in line with my healthcare team’s advice. Knowing the support was backed by Diabetes UK gave me real confidence I was doing the right thing for my health.

“My relationship with food has totally changed and I’ve fully embraced new habits so I know I’ll be able to keep the weight off forever. We cook from scratch so much nowadays, with lots of lean meat and vegetables. As we both lead such busy lives, we love the convenience of the Slimming World Free Food range from Iceland, too. We’ve always got Slimming World chips in the freezer.

“I led a very sedentary lifestyle before, working from home and sitting down for eight hours. The most exercise I did was a walk at the weekend and some housework. My fitness was non-existent and I'd be lucky to manage 10 minutes walking on a treadmill.” 

With the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Mark was able to steadily incorporate more activity into his day. He says: “At the start, I couldn’t even entertain the idea of any exercise. As I started losing weight though I began to move more by getting off my chair and walking around the house and going for regular brisk walks. After a month I realised I was enjoying fitness again – I used to work out in my 20’s but had stopped.

“These days, I’m fitter than I’ve ever been – I’m a regular at the gym and even run there and back most days. My favourite way to start the day is a run along the seafront before work. Before Slimming World, I was just an overweight guy going through the motions, not thinking much about my health or how I looked. Now, I feel like a completely new man. Being active and outdoors again isn’t just good for my body – it’s lifted my whole outlook on life.

“I used to struggle to find clothes that fit and would rely on basic supermarket 4 or 5XL t-shirts instead of things I really wanted to wear.  Since I’ve lost weight, the impact on my everyday life has been incredible – I’m healthier, full of energy and I feel much more confident.

“Eight months after joining Slimming World, my health check revealed that my type 2 diabetes had gone into remission. My health has turned around completely – doctors used to be worried I’d have a heart attack, now I’ve come off my blood pressure medication and I’ve even stopped snoring and sleep much better.”

Mark’s experience backs up research published in the journal Archives of Diabetes & Obesity showing that people with type 2 diabetes can improve their diabetes management by making healthy lifestyle changes and losing weight following Slimming World’s programme. The research revealed, of the members surveyed, 33.9% of those with type 2 diabetes reported their diabetes had gone into remission; this increased to 51% for those who’d lost at least 10% of their body weight; 61% were able to reduce or stop taking their diabetes medication and 81% saw improvements in their blood glucose (also known as blood sugar levels) management.

Diabetes UK estimates that 1.3 million people are currently living with type 2 diabetes but are yet to be diagnosed^[i].

Dr Sarah-Elizabeth Bennett, Senior Research Associate at Slimming World, says: “The improvements Mark has made to his health are incredible and our research shows many members experience similar outcomes. The study shows how 80% of the Slimming World members polled reported an improved quality of life while managing health conditions after following the weight loss support programme. Slimming World’s partnership with Diabetes UK makes that support even stronger and enables us to further deepen our understanding of the challenges and misconceptions people living with diabetes face.

“Slimming World’s flexible healthy eating plan can be easily tailored for members like Mark to fit their individual needs and to make sure it’s in line with the dietary advice from their healthcare professional. It enables members to enjoy a wide variety of healthy everyday foods – like fresh fruit and veg, lean meat and poultry, fat free dairy, eggs, pasta, rice and grains.”

Sarah Wells runs the Fleetwood Slimming World group and is Mark’s Consultant. She says: “To think it was a year ago that Mark joined my group – it’s been incredible to see his progress. His success just goes to show how Slimming World makes a real difference in people’s lives – we have the best package in group to help members lose weight, including techniques we share to help members understand themselves better, looking at those foods or situations that are stoppers for them and finding ways to protect their weight loss in the long term. By changing his habits around food and activity in ways that worked for him, Mark was able to lose more than 8st and go on to put his type 2 diabetes into remission. I’m so very proud of him.”

Douglas Twenefour, Head of Clinical at Diabetes UK, says: “We are proud to be working with Slimming World, supporting members who are living with diabetes, or at risk of type 2 diabetes. By combining our expertise on weight loss, long-term healthy eating and diabetes, we are committed to helping people build healthier habits and live healthier lives.”

If you’d like to start your own Slimming World journey, you can find more information or find your nearest group here.

Mark Fettes

Weight Loss: 8st 5lbs (54kg)

Joining weight: 20st 8lbs (130.6kg)

Current weight: 12st 3lbs (77kg)

BEFORE

Breakfast: Fast food breakfast delivery – typically two or three pork sausages, egg and cheese toasted muffins 

Lunch: Five or six microwaveable burgers

Dinner: Takeaway usually Chinese or pizza or kebabs – two to four nights a week

Snacks: Share bag of crisps usually cheese balls, sweets and full sugar fizzy drinks

AFTER

Breakfast: Overnight oats with low-fat yoghurt and fruit or poached fresh haddock and grilled tomatoes with wholemeal toasted pitta bread

Lunch: Chicken slices and salad with a wholemeal wrap; a jacket potato with tuna, sweetcorn and low-fat mayonnaise or a hearty soup

Dinner: Low-fat sausages, beans topped with grated reduced-fat cheese and Slimming World chips

Snacks: Fruit, a low-fat bag of crisps and high fibre snack bars

The 42-year-old’s story comes as a OnePoll study of Slimming World members^[1] reveals 85 per cent were surprised they could lose weight while still eating foods they loved and more than half (56 per cent) reported being surprised at how quickly they’ve lost weight since joining.

Emma, 42, from Plympton in Plymouth, says: “In 2022, through my job, I was given an opportunity to try weight loss drugs from a private clinic. I spent £1,712 on a six-month course. I was full of hope that I’d lose weight by my appetite being suppressed, but I was just as hungry as ever and over the six months I gained 22lbs (10kg). I was so disappointed.”

Then, in late summer 2023, Emma went to a family wedding in Greece with her eight-year-old son Arlo. She says: “When I saw the photos, my heart sank. When I got back and showed the photos to family and friends, I was mortified at how I looked. I spoke to my sister Laura and she suggested that we join Slimming World together.

“Going to the group that first time, I was nervous as I thought everyone would be looking at me, but my sister reassured me that we were all in the same boat – and she was right, everyone was so friendly.

“After just one session, we were so inspired! Hearing about the healthy eating plan and that we could still eat our favourite food and lose weight was great. When we saw the weight loss success of others in the group, we knew we were in the right place. We both came away determined that we were going to make this work and believing that we could! I lost 9lbs that first week!

“What struck home was when the group’s Consultant, Debbie, asked us to think about our everyday habits and where we might be able to make simple changes to our lives which would make big changes to our weight loss. I’d been commuting to and from London and I’d often grab food on the go without thinking about it. Lunch might have been a sandwich, crisps or chocolate bar and a fizzy drink as part of a meal deal or a ready meal, like mac n cheese. I realised it was all about convenience for me – it was such an eye-opener!

“With the support from my Slimming World group, I learnt how to make my favourite meals such as spaghetti bolognese, stew and chilli with cheesy garlic bread in a healthier way without losing any of the taste or flavour. As my husband Michael is from Ghana, I’ve even adapted some Ghanaian meals, which are typically cooked with a lot of oil, to healthier versions – my Jollof rice is a favourite! We’re both enjoying eating more healthily and cooking meals at home like Slimming World's sweet potato curry or if we’re pushed for time, then we both love cauliflower mac n cheese from the Slimming World food range at Iceland – I’m a big fan of everything in the range.”

Emma says: “Since I’ve joined Slimming World, life is so much easier – I don’t get out of breath so much and I’m able to play with Arlo and take him to the park. I’ve gone from trying to find a quick fix that cost a fortune to feeling in control of my weight. I’ve started planning my meals and I batch cook my favourites at the weekend. When I commute – which I do less now as I have a new role closer to home – I take something I’ve cooked at home. I’m losing weight yet I feel fuller than ever and I’m saving money.”

A separate study of UK adults conducted by OnePoll shows despite more weight loss drugs being available, 69 per cent of adults surveyed would be unlikely to take them^[2]. A quarter of those say it’s because they don’t want to change the way they eat, drink and socialise, 21 per cent worry they wouldn’t be getting the nutrition they need for good health and 20 per cent say they love their food too much.

Carolyn Pallister, Registered Dietician and Head of Nutrition, Research & Health at Slimming World, says: "When you’re desperate to lose weight, it can be tempting to chase quick fixes – weight loss injections, pills, surgery, a restrictive or fad diet, anything that promises instant results. These might involve supressing your appetite, depriving yourself or not being able to eat with others as your diet is so different. But the truth is there is no magic bullet. Lasting weight loss comes from making changes to our food, physical activity and mindset, and getting the support to make those changes last.”

Debbie Malone is Emma’s Slimming World Consultant. Debbie says: “Emma joined my group after weight loss drugs didn’t work and she was ready to see real results. Watching her lose weight while enjoying food that the whole family can enjoy has been truly inspiring and shows that lasting change is not only possible – it’s enjoyable.  Emma proves you don’t have to give up the things you love to reach your goals – you just need the right support.”

Group: Emma attends the Plympton Slimming World group in Plymouth, Devon.

Emma Warner

Starting weight: 17st 9lbs (112kg)

Weight lost: 3st 6lbs (21.7kg)

Current weight: 14st 3lbs (90kg)

Height: 158cm (5ft 2inch)

Before menu:

Breakfast: Nothing or a coffee on the go with one or two croissants 

Mid-morning: Biscuits 

Lunch: Meal deal sandwich and crisps 

Dinner: Fish and chips from the chip shop 

Dessert: Layered cheesecake dessert

Snacks: Crisps, salted nuts and chocolates

Drinks: Smoothie or full sugar coca cola 

After menu:

Breakfast: Overnight oats 

Lunch: Heated up leftovers/ batch cooked roast vegetable lasagne

Dinner: Freshly made chilli/ spag bol/ homemade stew 

Snacks: Fruit/ high fibre bar, low fat yoghurt, chocolate bar

Drinks: Water, diet cola, gin and tonic 

The 33-year-old’s story comes as a new OnePoll study of Slimming World members[1] reveals 85 per cent were surprised they could lose weight while still eating foods they loved and more than half (56 per cent) reported being surprised at how quickly they’ve lost weight since joining.

Kim, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, works at Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre. She says: “Being on my feet all the time, I’d be exhausted after a shift and I was constantly out of breath. My weight affected family life too. I’ll never forget one holiday when I was too embarrassed to go on a waterslide with my boys, Jax, who’s now seven, and Grayson, who’s five. I could see by their little faces, they were so disappointed. It was heartbreaking.

“Then when I was out with my friends one night, I fell and broke my leg. Being unable to move, I gained more weight than ever. That’s when my mum, Sharon, suggested we join Slimming World together. Mum only joined with me for support, and she’s gone on to lose 2st. When my sister Charlotte saw the plan working for us, she joined the group too and now she’s lost 4st, so we’re 16st lighter in total! We love swapping recipes and cooking together.

“My relationship with food has completely changed! I make healthier versions of all my favourite meals – I don’t cook in oil anymore and now I always buy lean meat. It’s been easy to adapt our family meals so we can all eat the same thing. Our favourite dinner is Slimming World's Chilli Con Carne – we all love it, especially the boys!

“Before, a weekly highlight for me was our regular Friday and Saturday night takeaways with all the family, with plenty of beer or wine. I’d never think about the calories we were consuming – I don’t think any of us did! We still have our family takeaway nights now, but we all enjoy healthier versions – ‘fakeaways’ – our favourite is Slimming World chicken kebab with Slimming World chips. My partner, Anthony, has lost 2st just from eating the same meals as me.

“Before losing weight, like many people, I came across all sorts of quick fixes, fad diets and even weight loss medications. While weight loss injections will appeal to some people, I was personally worried about how they might affect my health and impact my whole lifestyle. I’ve always loved food and sharing meals with my family. In the past, my health issues made it hard to enjoy those moments, as I often struggled with heartburn. For me, Slimming World has been the perfect match – it fits into my life, allows me to enjoy food and eat the same meals as my family, and has helped me to lose weight and improve my health.”

A separate study of UK adults conducted by OnePoll shows despite more weight loss drugs being available, 69 per cent of adults surveyed would be unlikely to take them[2]. A quarter of those say it’s because they don’t want to change the way they eat, drink and socialise, 21 per cent worry they wouldn’t be getting the nutrition they need for good health and 20 per cent say they love their food too much.

Kim, who’s gone from a size 22 to a size 12, says: “The weekly group support has been a game-changer for me. Being around other people who get it is makes all the difference. The strategies I’ve learned and all the encouragement has kept me motivated when I might have struggled if I was finding my own way. I still enjoy going out with my friends at the weekends, and I’ve learned how to make healthier choices around my food and drink to still have a great time. I’ll make sure I’ve got something ready and waiting for when I get in, so I’m not tempted to reach for the late-night snacks! I’ve even inspired a friend to join Slimming World after they saw how well it works for me.

“Life now is so much easier. I don’t get breathless like I used to and I’m not exhausted after a shift. We recently went to Menorca and I made sure I went on every waterslide with the boys – Jax was so chuffed and I had so much fun!”

From not being active at all, Kim’s now a regular at the gym: “I didn’t even walk anywhere before – then I heard about Slimming World’s activity programme, and it gave me the confidence to get active at my own pace. Slimming World showed me that by choosing something you enjoy, it’s easier to keep it up. I recently swam a 25k swim challenge for Cancer Research raising just under £400.”

Sam Sisson is Kim’s Slimming World Consultant. Sam says: “I’m so proud of Kim – she’s lost weight by eating nutritious, real food that fits around her lifestyle. The fact that she’s been able to lose weight while enjoying meals with her friends and family just shows that you can reach the weight or size you want to be by eating the food you love! I get so much pleasure seeing new members being amazed they can lose weight without feeling like they’re missing out or having to stop socialising.”

Group: Kim attends the Kirk Hallam Slimming World group in Derbyshire.

Kim Quigley

Starting weight: 20st 9lbs/ 131kg

Weight lost: 9st 10lbs/ 61.6kg

Current weight: 10st 13lbs/ 69.4kg

Height: 5ft 3in

BEFORE

Breakfast: Sugary cereal breakfast bar

Mid-morning: Biscuits, usually around six custard creams  

Lunch: Shop-bought meal deal triple sandwich with mayo, bag of crisps and a chocolate bar  

Dinner: Lasagne with garlic bread, oven chips and every Friday and Saturday a large selection of Chinese takeaway

Dessert: Chocolate bar

Drinks: 2 litres of diet cola daily, tea with two sugars, white wine, beer

AFTER

Breakfast: Fresh fruit salad topped with fat free yoghurt

Lunch: Jacket potato with tuna and salad or a homemade sandwich on wholemeal bread, with a small bag of crisps

Dinner: Chilli con carne with rice or chicken kebabs with Slimming World chips and salad

Snacks: Two high fibre cereal bars, chocolate bar, fruit

Drinks: Chilled water, couple of cans of diet cola, glass of white wine, juice with no added sugar, tea with sweetener

[1] A self-selecting sample of 2,005 Slimming World members were polled via Slimming World’s member website between 21^st and 24^th March 2025

[2] Data relates to a nationally representative sample of 2,000 UK adults surveyed between 21st to 24th March 2025

Kenny Higgins, 48, says he recorded a ‘goodbye message’ for his loved ones after being rushed to hospital. He’s since lost 22st – nearly two thirds of his body weight – and won the title of Slimming World’s Greatest Loser 2025 – awarded to the member with the biggest weight loss within the organisation’s 13,000 groups.

Kenny, who at his heaviest weighed 34st 7lbs, says: “I was always the ‘biggest’ kid at school and was bullied because of it – and it only continued to get worse as I got older.

“I was barely living before joining Slimming World. I was too scared to leave the house, and when I did, it was usually for one of my many visits to the hospital. I reached a point where all my health problems became too overwhelming. The extra weight I was carrying caused so much pain in my joints, I could barely walk down the road without struggling. On top of that, I suffered from severe back pain, my asthma was out of control and I was constantly battling chest infections.”

While Kenny had tried various weight-loss methods in the past, nothing worked for him long-term. He says: “I had been referred to nutritionists and other weight-loss groups through my doctor in the past, however I never felt like I was getting any actual support. In the end I’d revert back to my old habits and would be back at square one in no time. I’d been a Slimming World member ten years ago and lost 17st. While it was working well for me, unfortunately life got in the way, and I stopped going to the group and found it hard to keep going without their support.”

The turning point for Kenny this time came when he collapsed while he was shopping with his then six-year-old daughter. Kenny says: “I was rushed to hospital and the doctors told me I was the verge of having a heart attack. I was initially put on a ‘Do Not Resuscitate’ order because they didn’t believe I’d be able to survive. By some miracle, I managed to pull through. This was the wakeup call I needed to make a change – and this time, for good.”

A few weeks later, Kenny’s friend Bev Houlihan encouraged him to joined Slimming World again and together they headed to a group in Blackpool. He says: “I was worried I’d be judged for regaining the weight I’d lost all those years ago, but I needn’t have been. My Consultant Natalie helped me look at the positives and reminded me that as I’d done it once before, I could do it again – and that’s stuck with me throughout my whole journey.”

Kenny set a weight he wanted to achieve and hasn’t looked back since. He says: “Being able to chat to some of the other members about their journeys gave me the boost I needed to stay hopeful, especially in those early weeks. I was so lonely before joining my group, and for the first time in a long time, I felt part of a community of people who understood me – it was the best feeling knowing that everyone is genuinely rooting for you. We help keep each other accountable too — something I know I’d struggle with on my own.”

Having been a member before, Kenny was able to embrace the healthy eating plan right away. He says: “In the beginning, I felt too embarrassed to go to the shops in case I couldn’t manage the walk. So, instead, I did an online food shop and stocked up on some meals from the Slimming World Free Food range, from my local Iceland store, to get me through the days when cooking wasn’t an option. And as I started losing weight and feeling more confident – both in myself and in the kitchen – I began walking to the shops to pick up the ingredients to make my own version of some of my favourite meals, like the Chicken Madras, from scratch, in the air fryer. I’ll still keep a bag of Slimming World Chips in the freezer for those days when I need something quick to throw in with my dinner.

“To this day, one of the things I love most about Food Optimising is that I never feel restricted, and that I can enjoy tasty, real food that I actually want to eat – like a lasagne or chicken curry. So many weight loss methods focus on limiting what you eat or suppressing your appetite, but I know that wouldn’t have worked for me at all. With Slimming World, I’ve learned how to consume fewer calories in a way that doesn’t make me feel deprived – quite the opposite in fact, I’d say I enjoy food more nowadays.

“Looking back, I realise I used food as a source of comfort, and lived on takeaways and junk food. I used to spend a minimum of £140 a week on takeaways, when I stopped getting them the takeaway owner actually contacted me to check I was okay. Now, I have a better relationship with food and make sure I’m filling myself with healthier, more nutritious food.”

With the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Kenny was able to steadily incorporate more activity into his day. He says: “At the start, I couldn’t even entertain the idea of any exercise. As time went on though, I noticed I had more energy and began walking. Each week I’d walk for a little longer, and now I can easily walk five miles a day. I recently started running too, and I’m working my way up to a 5k.”

Since joining Slimming World, Kenny’s life has transformed and he’s excited about making new memories. He says: “My health has improved dramatically. I’m able to move now without being in crippling pain, and I’m no longer dependent on other people to help me get by. I also don’t have to think twice about simple tasks that once felt impossible – like doing my food shopping or tying my shoelaces. I used to fear going out in public before, now one of my favourite things to do is treating myself to a nice coffee from my local coffee shop – being able to fit in the chairs comfortably is the best feeling too.”

Kenny continues: “I wanted to be the best dad I could be for my children, and now I can be the version they deserve. I've finally found that silver lining that people talked about – this is just the beginning for me.”

You can view a video of Kenny’s story here.

VITAL STATS
Name: Kenny Higgins 
Age: 48
Height: 5ft 5ins/165.1cm
Starting weight: 34st 7lbs/219.1kg/483lbs      
Current weight: 12st 7lbs/79.4kg/175lbs
Weight loss: 22st/139.7kg/308lbs
Waist size before: 70in/177.8cm
Waist size now: 38in/96.5cm
Joined current Slimming World group: April 2023

Group: Kenny attends the Blackpool Slimming World group, which is ran by Consultant Natalie Meadows

Before menu
Breakfast: Bacon and sausages on two white bread rolls
Lunch: A takeaway or snacks like chocolate and cake  
Dinner: Chinese takeaway or two large pizzas from the local takeaway
Snacks: Chocolates, energy drinks, lemon meringue pie

After menu
Breakfast: Fresh fruit like, apple and mixed berries, with fat-free Greek yogurt
Lunch: Jacket potato with beans & cheese or chilli
Dinner: Homemade chicken curry or Slimming World Lasagne from the Slimming World food range with veg
Snacks: Slimming World Triple Choc Hi-fi bars, fat-free crème fraiche with raspberries and mini meringues  

– ends –

Hollie says: “During lockdown, there was so little to do that eating and drinking became ways to fill my time. I’d spend money on food without thinking of what it was doing to my bank balance or my body. Before I joined Slimming World, I’d drive everywhere and eat whatever I chose – it was easier to pay for a takeaway each Friday night rather than cook.

“I remember promising myself that when I hit a size 16, I would lose weight, but it never happened and when I joined Slimming World, I was wearing a size 22/24. Being overweight meant that I couldn’t move as freely as I wanted to or wear the clothes I liked in the shops. I always tried to dress nicely and take pride in my appearance no matter my size, but deep down I knew I wasn’t wearing the style of clothes I really wanted to wear and it affected my confidence.”

It was when Hollie’s friend Emma asked her if she wanted to join their local Slimming World group together that everything changed.

She says: “The first time I went to the group was daunting as I didn’t know what to expect. I’d tried Slimming World before but only ever online as I was always too scared to sit in a room and face the scales each week. I didn’t have anything to worry about though, my Consultant put me at ease straight away and I immediately knew I’d made a step in the right direction.”

Hollie has since lost 6st 13lbs (44kg) following Slimming World’s flexible healthy eating plan and is still able to enjoy her favourite meals like a roast dinner and lasagna.

She continues: “I was amazed with how much I was able to eat without feeling like I was on a diet or restricting my favourite foods. Being able to still make delicious meals like an Indian ‘fakeaway’ and lose weight has been a game-changer. I don’t feel like I’m missing out on the joy of food as I can still go out for dinner with my family or meet my friends for coffee dates and feel confident that I have the knowledge to keep up healthy habits.

Alongside her weight loss success, Hollie has also increased her activity levels with Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme.

She says: “Before Slimming World I very rarely did exercise as I made the excuse that I didn’t have the time and I didn’t want to buy new sports clothes. Discovering the physical activity programme made me realise that I could make progress at my own pace with movement that I enjoy. After losing three and a half stone, I joined my local running club as they were supporting people who wanted to get into running at a steady rate by following the Couch to 5k programme. I soon realised I’d found an exercise that I loved and started to build my distance and stamina.”

As well as donating the clothes she has slimmed out of to Cancer Research UK as part of the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw, Hollie is aiming to increase awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can improve people’s health and help reduce the risk of 13 different types of cancer, by taking on the 2025 London Marathon.

She says: “I’ll be running this year’s marathon as part of the Slimming World team and in aid of Cancer Research UK, a charity very close to my heart. My cousin was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer in 2023 at the age of 36. It affected his spine and he now uses a wheelchair. This is a very rare form of cancer in people under 40 and is not curable but seeing how far he has come is incredibly inspiring – he’s now at the point where he is able to have a car and finally have some independence. I want to do everything I can, like running the marathon and donating any clothes I no longer wear, to help such an important charity support families like mine.”

The Slimming World London Marathon team will be raising funds for Cancer Research UK, the Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, Slimming World’s official charity partners.

Slimming World Consultant Claire Hoyle, who runs the group in Beverley that Hollie attends each week, says: “Hollie always brings enthusiasm and light to group each week. She never hesitates to get involved in discussions and is a great listener and cheerleader to her fellow members, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that she jumped at the chance to run the London Marathon and participate in the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw! She’s an inspiration to us all and we can’t wait to cheer her on in April!”

Slimming World has raised more than £25 million for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research through a variety of campaigns including The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and supporting the charity’s Race for Life event series.

Last year, Slimming World members, Consultants and head office staff raised £2.9m for Cancer Research UK through The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw by donating clothes they’d slimmed out of to the charity’s shops.

Steven Little, 40, from Norwich, made the life-changing decision to join his local Slimming World group following a heartbreaking experience during a dream trip to Florida in 2016, when he was unable to fit on a theme park ride. Steven says: “I’d always wanted to go to Florida and all the big theme parks. But when I got on the Harry Potter ride at Universal Studios, I pulled at the harness and immediately thought ‘this won’t fasten.’ Despite yanking and pulling at it, it would not budge, and I just couldn't get it to click into place. I was so embarrassed when I was asked to leave the ride.”

Steven had struggled with his weight since childhood and says the incident brought back feelings of insecurity from his younger years: “I always felt like the odd one out, like I didn’t fit in or wasn’t good enough, and that all came flooding back. I was determined to make a change for good after that.”

On his return from America, Steven looked up his local Slimming World group and went along. He says the group was nothing like he expected it to be, including when he heard about Slimming World’s healthy eating plan. Steven says: “My experiences of trying to lose weight had always involved restricting myself, which I could never sustain for long. I’d always go back to how I’d been eating before and end up putting on even more weight.

“I expected Slimming World would be the same, but as soon as my Consultant Karen told me I’d be able to eat my favourite foods like steak and chips and still lose weight, I was hooked. I went away that week and made simple changes like choosing lean meat and not cooking in oil. I ate real, hearty meals and wondered if it was too good to be true. In my first week I lost 8lbs and I couldn’t believe it. I thought to myself, I can actually do this.

As well as making changes to his diet, Steven also embraced Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which encourages members to increase the amount of movement they do at a pace that’s right for them.

Steven says: “A few of the members at my Slimming World group started a walking group in Cromer and I asked if I could join them. We get our steps in and talk about life, and we’ve all become such good friends. Exercise always use to feel like a chore to me, but this is social time, so it doesn’t feel like that at all, and I look forward to it every week.”

Since losing weight, Steven returned to Florida and made unforgettable memories for all the right reasons second time around – he fit comfortably on all the rides. He says: “That moment in Florida was a real wake-up call for me, but I didn’t know then how that awful experience was going to change my life forever. Being able to return and reflect on that – as well as go on every single ride – was the most amazing feeling.”

Steven’s weight loss has not only transformed his health and confidence, it’s also inspired a new career. Alongside continuing to sell seafood, he has trained to become a Slimming World Consultant and now runs four groups across Norwich. He says: “I felt so passionate about Slimming World and what it did for me, I wanted to shout it from the rooftops – and still do. So when I got the opportunity to take over my local Slimming World group I jumped at the chance and now I support more than 400 members at my groups each week. Being able to help others find the same happiness and self-belief that I have is the most rewarding job.”

Steven has now maintained his weight loss for more than eight years and his achievement has earned him the title of Slimming World’s Top Target Consultant 2025. Steven says: “We’re bombarded with different weight loss methods nowadays, especially on social media. So many of these companies promise the earth, and a quick fix sounds really appealing when we're desperate to lose weight, but it’s so important to find a way that will help you to make lasting changes that fit into your real life. Getting support is absolutely crucial too, because losing weight isn’t easy – if it was so many of us wouldn’t be overweight. Slimming World gave me the tools and support to lose weight in a way that worked for me and I’m proof that you can lose weight and keep it off.”

Slimming World has 3,500 Consultants across the UK and Ireland who have all been members themselves, so they, like Steven, understand how it feels to be on a weight loss journey. To find out more about becoming a Consultant, visit: Become a Slimming World Consultant | Slimming World

You can view a video of Steven’s story, here.

Name: Steven Little

Age: 40

Height: 6"

Starting weight: 20st 10lbs/131.54kg

Current weight: 14st 5lbs/91.1kg

Weight loss: 6st 3lbs/39.4kg

Waist size before: 40"

Waist size now: 32"

Date joined Slimming World: April 2016

Before menu

Breakfast: Fast food sausage and egg muffin with a hash brown or a sausage bap from burger van

Lunch: Meal deal - triple sandwich, crisps and cola or sandwich on white bread with crisps.

Dinner: Take away kebab and chips, breaded chicken and oven chips or steak and chips

Snacks: Crisps, ice-cream, pork pies, sausage rolls, biscuits.

After menu

Breakfast: Wholemeal breakfast muffin, Slimming World sausage patties (available from Iceland, The Food Warehouse or Dunnes Stores), homemade  hash brown made in the air fryer, mushrooms and onions

Lunch:  Poke bowl - sushi rice, smoked salmon, pickled white slaw, roasted red peppers, pickled pink onions

Dinner: Steak with visible fat removed, Slimming World-style chips with mixed leaves, vine tomatoes, peppers and onions

Snacks:  Fat-free yogurts, apples, strawberries, grapes, Hula Hoop puffs, triple chocolate high fibre cereal bar.

Mum of two Marianna Demetriades, 43, from Enfield, Middlesex, was told by her GP that she was a ‘heart attack waiting to happen’. She took those words seriously and joined her local Slimming World group that same week. It was a decision that’s changed her life as she’s gone on to lose 7st and never felt better.

She says: “In March 2022 weighing 17st 7lbs, I had the biggest wakeup call of my life. Having just turned 40, I was invited to attend an NHS health check-up. I knew the doctor was going to tell me I was overweight, yet I wasn’t ready for his diagnosis. I remember it so clearly, he said, “I need to be honest with you, if you don’t lose weight, you’re going to develop type 2 diabetes, thyroid problems and high cholesterol.” He went on to say that based on my weight and height – I'm 5ft 1in – I was a heart attack waiting to happen.”

The children’s play practitioner, who has been married to Paul for 18 years and has two children, Christopher, 17, and Anna-Maria, 14, adds: “It was such a shock. I joined Slimming World that same week – I’d been a member before, so I knew the plan worked.

“This time around I made sure to stay to the group each week. I found it fascinating to learn more about myself and my relationship with food, and I spoke more openly about it than I ever had. My Consultant Michelle’s in-depth support helped me unpick the psychological side of my food choices. I realised I was an emotional eater – if I was upset, I’d eat crisps, ice cream, pasties or sausage rolls. It was a breakthrough. I developed a new, empowering sense of being in control and I still love that I get to invest in myself for that time each week.”

Marianna continues: “As my confidence began to grow, so did my interest in activity. I began by just walking around my neighbourhood for 10 minutes. 10 minutes passed…then another. I discovered all sorts of lovely sights I’d never even realised were on our doorstep! After that, there was no stopping me. I got up a little earlier each morning to squeeze in an online workout, and by the time I lost 3st (19kg), I was going to the gym at work up to three times a week.

“Losing weight has given me so much more confidence to be able to live the life I’m living now. I was so unhappy and scared for my health and joining a Slimming World group was the best decision I ever made. Nowadays – I feel happy, healthy and full of energy. When I went back to the doctor’s for a check-up, I was relieved when my GP said there were no signs of type 2 diabetes, no high cholesterol and I had a healthy heart.”

Marianna’s been so inspired by her weight loss journey that she’s trained as a Slimming World Consultant herself and now runs groups in Woodford Green, London.

Marianna Demetriades

Starting weight: 17st 5lbs (110.4kg)

Weight lost: 7st 1lb (44.9kg)

Current weight: 10st 4lbs (65.5kg)

Height: 5ft 1in

BEFORE

Breakfast: White toast with peanut butter or a bacon and egg fry up, cooked in oil

Lunch: Sandwiches made with white bread, mayonnaise and butter plus crisps or a supermarket meal deal

Dinner: Deep fried meatballs, roasts cooked with oil, a weekly Indian takeaway and kebabs

Snacks: crackers with butter, crisps, chocolate and cheese strings

AFTER

Breakfast: Healthy overnight oats with fat-free Greek yoghurt, berries and cinnamon, or an omelette or Slimming World cooked breakfast at the weekend

Lunch: Wholemeal pitta filled with skinless roast chicken, lettuce, tomato and cucumber

Dinner:  Slimming World prawn stir-fry with noodles and lots of vegetables. Fruit salad for dessert

Snacks and drinks: Low fat fibre bar, water 

[1] British Heart Foundation (BHF)

He says: “I was relatively slim until I hit my 20s. My weight crept up from there so, I’ve essentially lived most of my life overweight. I’ve tried all sorts of diets over the years – Keto, meal replacement shakes and even the baby food diet. I’d lose a bit of weight, but none of them were sustainable. I didn’t enjoy what I was eating and felt I was missing out, which led to me feeling depressed and eating even more, in a downward spiral. I was seriously contemplating weight loss drugs before starting Slimming World and I’m so glad I didn’t go down that route.

“I’m a mechanic by trade and I’ve been in the industry for nearly 30 years. I work for the RAC managing a team of 43 patrols who attend hundreds of breakdowns every day. I no longer work at the roadside myself, and one of the reasons was because it was becoming such a struggle. I’d been known to get myself wedged under many a car while working and the physical side of the job was getting harder and harder.”

It was when Nick’s youngest son Oscar was born in 2019 that he really started considering his future. He says: “I knew I wasn’t the youngest of dads and my health wasn’t great either. I have been asthmatic all my life and I hadn’t realised what a huge part my weight played in this. I decided to go for a routine check-up at the doctor’s and the results were eye-opening. The doctor said I had prediabetes, high cholesterol and sleep apnoea too.”

Nick and his four best friends, decided to go along to his local Slimming World group. He says: “I was very sceptical at first. I was worried what being in a group was going to be like and that this would become something else I wasn’t able to stick with. But I was so wrong. My Wednesday night group is a highlight of my week. I soon realised that I didn’t have to miss out, I can still eat all my favourite foods and we can still eat together as a family. My Consultant Clare and the other members are so supportive.”

Nick, who lives with his wife Kerrie and two sons, 20-year-old Josh and Oscar, who’s now five, soon began to enjoy Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, and introduced new healthy ways of cooking and eating for the whole family. He says: “Clare helped me realise where my excess calories came from. I started planning my meals, so I didn’t make unhealthy decisions because I was hungry and in a rush. I prepared things to take to work with me and the other members in group gave me ideas to help me stay on track.”

In time, Nick became more active with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members introduce activity at their own pace and in a way that fits in with their daily routine. 

“Being slimmer and having more energy encouraged me to get more active. I joined the gym with the same friends I joined Slimming World with, and I honestly love it. I never would have set foot in a gym when I was heavier. The simplest of tasks were a challenge before – I got out of breath just walking around the house. I’m a really active dad now, I enjoy long walks with the dogs and have even tried classes like spin and pilates. Slimming World has changed my life so much for the better.”

Now that he’s 6st lighter, Nick says he is much more positive at work too: “I feel more organised and focused throughout the day and feel I can give better support to the team that I look after. With my new positive mindset and drive to improve myself, I’ve enrolled in a team leader course that will provide a qualification at the end. My mental health and focus have all improved so much since I started my journey and feel like I’m the best possible version of me.”

VITAL STATS:

Name: Nick Furlong

Age: 45

Height: 5ft 11ins/180.34cm

Starting weight: 18st 11lbs/263lbs/119.2kg 

Current weight: 12st 11lbs/179lbs/81.2kg

Weight loss: 6st/84lbs/38kg

Waist size before: 42-44ins/111.76cm

Waist size now: 32ins/81.2cm

Date joined Slimming World:13/03/2024

Group: Nick is a member of Clare O’Connell’s group in Woodhatch, Surrey

Before menu

Breakfast: Cafe bacon rolls, sausage sandwiches, or fast-food breakfast 

Lunch: Shop-bought sandwiches or more fast food                                               

Dinner: Home cooked meals like spaghetti bolognese

Snacks:  Packs of crisps. Chocolate bars. Petrol station cakes/doughnuts.

After menu

Breakfast: Overnight oats. Fruit and low-fat yogurt      

Lunch:   Tuna salad and rice dishes

Dinner:  Homemade Slimming World burgers, curries, stir fries and spaghetti bolognese. Lots of fish, lean meat and vegetables.

Snacks:  Fruit, nuts, boiled eggs, chocolate bar             

– ends –    

Jess Westbury, who’s been named one of Slimming World’s Icons – a brand-new competition for the weight loss organisation for 2025 – says she knew she needed to lose weight when carrying out everyday tasks, like cleaning or walking the dog, were becoming difficult. It was in the new year in January 2023, after having her daughter, Ella, now two, when Jess decided to join her local Slimming World group.

Jess, from Chesterfield, had struggled with her weight since her teens. She says: “I’ve always felt like the ‘bigger’ friend. I started putting on weight when I was around 16 and it affected my confidence. I really loved swimming at school but I was so self-conscious that I would get a sick note to get out of lessons.

“Looking back now, my weight was having a bigger impact on my day-to-day life than I initially thought. My knees and back were in constant pain and I could barely make it up the hill to the top of my road without getting out of breath. Ella was still so small and I didn’t want her to grow up without me being able to do everything with her – she was the motivation I needed to make a change.”

When a Slimming World leaflet came through her front door, Jess decided to join Consultant Kerry Wright’s group in Danesmoor, Chesterfield. She says: “It felt like a sign seeing the leaflet, so I decided to message Kerry. She was so warm and genuinely nice, and it gave me the confidence to actually go. There were so many emotions going through my mind that first night. I was nervous and scared, and felt embarrassed at the thought of being judged. I tried to block those thoughts out and as soon as I walked in I felt loads better. Everyone was so lovely and kind – and I never once felt judged. Looking back now, it was the best decision I could have made.”

Jess continues: “My group night has become time for me – and I always come away feeling inspired and motivated for the week ahead. A few of my friends have become members too, and it’s great that we can support each other.”

Having attempted to lose weight on her own in the past, Jess’s group helped her to approach losing weight with a completely different mindset. She says: “Before I joined Slimming World I thought I could do it alone. I tried to eat more healthily but I never stuck at it for long enough and always ended up falling back into my old eating habits. It wasn’t until I started to better understand my relationship with food, that it clicked for me.”

Jess embraced Slimming World’s healthy eating plan right away. She says: “The way I cook now has totally changed. I love food, so knowing I didn’t have to stop eating the food I love, like chips and chilli, or that I didn’t have to cook separate meals for my husband Dan and Ella, was music to my ears. Instead, I started making easy swaps like making my own homemade chips in the air fryer with low-calorie cooking spray instead of using oil or buying ready-made chips. The Slimming World app has been a game changer for me too – it’s so convenient when I’m shopping and preparing for the week ahead, and my go-to when I’m looking for new recipes to try. Our family favourite is spaghetti bolognese.

“Before, we would have at least two takeaways a week and ate out a lot, and I love that I haven’t had to give that up. Dan and I still enjoy the occasional takeaway and we go out for a meal every now and then too. Going to my group each week, and talking to Kerry and the other members about how they’ve embraced the plan, has helped me to enjoy some of my favourite treats – like desserts – when I feel like it too, without feeling guilty about it. The tips and learnings I’ve picked up along the way have been invaluable.”

With Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Jess was encouraged to incorporate more movement at her own pace. She says: “I was lucky if I did 3k steps a day, mainly because my body couldn’t take it. I couldn’t enjoy horse riding – something I’d always loved – because I could only ride on a specific kind of horse that would be able to carry my weight, which weren’t as easy to find.

“As I started losing weight, I was able to walk further and for longer – and without any struggle. I’ll now happily walk for miles and no longer need the bigger horses when I’m horse riding, which is such an amazing feeling.”

As well as running a haulage business, Jess also owns a few rental properties with her husband. She says: “Managing a demanding business, where I’m constantly on the go, no longer feels like a chore. I’m able to do just about everything and anything, from jumping up into the lorries to cleaning the properties with no struggles, and I feel a lot more confident when I meet new clients too.”

Jess continues: “I no longer hide in baggy black clothes or shy away from trying new clothes anymore. I would live in leggings before, because they were all I felt comfortable in. Now I love experimenting with different styles of clothing – and wear bright colours too.”

As well as celebrating turning 30 recently, Jess and Dan, 37, got married last summer. She says: “2024 was a big year for me – I celebrated my birthday feeling the best I ever have. I got married in my dream wedding dress and I felt incredible in it too. It feels so normal now, but the fact that I can run around after Ella and even go down the slide with her in the park is huge for me – it’s something I absolutely dreaded before. I can’t wait to be the mum that wins the egg and spoon race at school now!”

You can view a video of Jess’s story here. 

VITAL STATS:

Name: Jess Westbury 
Age: 30
Height: 5ft 8ins/173cm
Starting weight: 17st 6lbs/111kg/244lbs      
Current weight: 11st 6lbs/73kg/160lbs 
Weight loss: 6st/38kg/84lbs
Dress size before: 22-24
Dress size now: 10-12
Joined Slimming World group: 2023
Group: Jess attends the Danesmoor Slimming World group in Chesterfield, which is ran by Consultant Kerry Wright

Before menu
Breakfast: White toast or a heaped bowl of chocolate cereal
Lunch: Drive-through takeaways or shop-bought sandwich meal deals
Dinner: Takeaways, pasta made with readymade sauce or frozen pizza
Snacks: Chocolate and crisps  

After menu
Breakfast: Homemade breakfast cheesecake using wholewheat biscuits or fruit with fat-free yogurt
Lunch: Pasta salads, jacket potato with beans and cheese or homemade vegetable soup with wholemeal pitta   
Dinner: Homemade pizza wraps and chips, beef chilli or spaghetti bolognese with salad
Snacks: Slimming World high-fibre bars, low-calorie crisps or fruit  

– ends –

A new survey[1] of more than 2,000 UK adults commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest group-based weight-loss organisation Slimming World reveals 50% of UK adults say they’ve put off even trying to lose weight. More than one in five people (22%) say they’ve delayed losing weight for three years or more, with many saying that has impacted their health and caused them to gain even more weight.

The survey, carried out independently by Censuswide reveals four in 10 (42%) have thought about losing weight at least once a week without taking action, despite around half being unhappy with their size (48%) and saying they know they eat unhealthy food (54%) and almost three-quarters wanting to improve their health (70%).

These findings back up a separate study[2] of more than 7,000 new Slimming World members conducted last January which showed more than two thirds said that before going to a Slimming World group, they didn’t dare dream they could lose weight and stay slim (69%). More than half of the members surveyed said that they’d had feelings of doubt, uncertainty and a lack of motivation and control for more than a year, and for some people 10 years or more.

However, in just one session, almost every new member left filled with self-belief, self-confidence and self-determination. This switch came from learning more about Slimming World’s health-giving eating plan, seeing the success of other members, and experiencing the empowering support to help them overcome their personal barriers. They left feeling:

·         Committed to their weight loss (98%)

·         That they could lose weight and keep it off (96%)

·         Motivated to make changes to their lifestyle in order to lose weight (97%)

·         More confident to manage the things that had previously got in the way of them losing weight (89%)

When mum of two Charlotte Daniels joined her local Slimming World group weighing 20st, she’d been unhappy with her weight for years.  It’s a decision she says ‘changed her life’ – and she went on to lose 6st.

Charlotte, 32, from Bungay, says: “I knew I needed to lose weight. I was in such pain, even doing the simplest tasks and I was ashamed of my size.  I lived in baggy cardigans and leggings to hide myself – wearing a dress was out of the question!

“Before joining Slimming World, I was prescribed weight loss tablets and then decided to pay privately for weight loss injections. Neither worked. They left me feeling dizzy and sick with stomach cramps. I paid £250 a month for three months of injections and only lost 3lbs. My doctors kept suggesting gastric band surgery, but I said no, as I like my food. Knowing how many times I’d tried and failed to lose weight – my confidence was on the floor. I realised I wanted to feel proud knowing I’d taken control back for myself.

“Then, one day at the park, my two-year-old daughter ran for the gates to a busy road. I was so overweight and unfit I knew I’d never be able to stop her. If it wasn’t for my dad and husband sprinting to save her, she could have been injured. That was my final straw, and thankfully this time my doctor suggested I try Slimming World on a 12-week referral programme. I haven’t looked back since – I love that I’ve lost 6st eating healthy everyday food that my family can enjoy too.”

Slimming World on Referral (SWOR) is a partnership scheme with the NHS which provides those living with overweight or obesity to access to a 12 week weight loss plan from Slimming World. It’s available in 72 areas across the UK.

Charlotte’s story shows for anyone delaying putting off weight – there is good news. There is a way people can win the battle for self, rebuild their hope and optimism, and achieve a healthy, lasting weight loss.

With over a decade of expertise in neurogastroenterology and cardiovascular pharmacology from leading institutions including the University of Sheffield and the University of Nottingham, Dr. Jemma Donovan PhD, Slimming World’s Research Manager, says:

Charlotte says: “I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life, but when I came to Slimming World, within minutes that feeling started to change. I knew from that first group that my pause button had switched to play! I immediately felt welcomed and not judged. With Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, my relationship with food completely changed. I make healthier versions of all my favourite foods. I’m never hungry, and it’s easy to adapt our family meals so we all eat the same thing.”

“Learning about the real food I could eat with my family, the strategies and thinking time I’d get each week in group, the knowledge I’d build and seeing other members, I gained a belief in myself that I hadn’t felt for years. The accountability of the weekly group is important for me and with the encouragement of my Consultant and the other members, I was able to stay committed week after week.”

From not being active at all and struggling to race after her daughter, Charlotte is now a regular at the gym thanks to Slimming World's activity support programme, which helps you to find activities you enjoy and build up at your own pace.

Charlotte says: "I’ve gone from a size 22 to a size 14. I’m still on my weight loss journey however I’m so much more confident now. My Slimming World Consultant Liz helps keep me motivated each week and supports me throughout. The Slimming World App is great too – I use it every day. Tracking my food and planning my meals in advance works well for me and the app helps inspire me with recipes too. I also love reading the member success stories.

“Being part of Liz’s group has been crucial to my success. I saw the success other members were achieving and that gave me hope that I could do the same. And the belief Liz had in me was like nothing I’d felt before – it felt like I’d come home. I’ve always tried to lose weight on my own and failed. I now realise that the support, understanding and friendship of others who know what you’re going through – that’s what was so vital for my success. I feel like I’ve found myself again – I enjoy every single day and every single meal! Slimming World has changed my life for the better, improved my health and I know it’s given me extra healthy years to spend with my children and hopefully grandchildren one day – a long way away!”

[1] The research was conducted by Censuswide, with 2000 Nat Rep Respondents (aged 18+) in the UK between 22.11.2024 - 26.11.2024. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council.

[2] Between 2^nd and 31^st January 2024, 7,106 Slimming World members who joined their local group that week completed an online survey asking for their feedback about their experience

Group: Charlotte attends the Beccles Slimming World group in Suffolk run by Consultant Liz Sunderland. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Charlotte Daniels

Starting weight: 20st 1lbs/ 127kg

Weight lost: 6st 1lbs/ 38.1kg

Current weight: 14st/ 88.9kg

Height: 5ft 6in/ 1.7m

BEFORE

Breakfast: All butter croissant or white toast with butter

Mid-morning: chocolate bar or crisps

Lunch: Full fat sausage and chips

Dinner: Takeaway or lasagna ready meal or curry made from a jar of sauce, with poppadom’s and naan bread

Snacks: Chocolate bar or biscuits

Drinks: Full fat milky coffee or a sachet latte

AFTER

Breakfast: Overnight oats made with fruit and fat free yoghurt

Lunch: Salad and jacket potato or tuna pasta salad or an omelette

Dinner: Slimming World roast chicken dinner, vegetables and golden roast potatoes (then I’ll have leftovers the next day in a salad or with vegetables and rice)

Snacks: Blueberries, high fibre bars, apples or oranges

Drinks: Coffee with oat milk, water and low-calorie mango drink

Ali Ridgley decided to make a change after reading the words ‘morbidly obese’ on her doctor’s computer when she went for a check-up at her starting weight of almost 23st (145kg). She says: “Seeing the words on my doctor’s screen spurred me into action. I was a heart attack waiting to happen.”

The 52-year-old adds: “I knew my weight was a problem – I’d always been bigger than my friends, but it wasn’t until I went to college and started socialising more that my weight began to climb. In 2018 my marriage broke down and I had a massive crisis of confidence. I tried to lose weight alone and would make some progress, however it would never be long before it came back on again. I’d been a Slimming World member before, so I knew the plan worked for me – I just needed to make that mental shift to fully embrace it this time.”

In the past Ali had considered weight loss surgery and says she can see why people are tempted by weight loss drugs and more drastic weight loss measures. She says: “I know how it feels to be completely desperate. I’d have given anything to be 13st lighter, but it felt so out of reach. Now I know that there is no quick fix that can help you lose weight and keep it off. For me, the healthy habits I have learned along the way have been invaluable.

“The way I cook and eat now have become so natural it’s effortless. Each pound I’ve lost has helped me to become the confident, fit and strong woman I am today and I’m so proud of myself. I’m so glad that I didn’t go down the bariatric surgery route.”

Despite having been a Slimming World member in the past, Ali still felt nervous before joining Neil Fenton’s group in Southway. She says: “I did feel a bit jittery about re-joining. Neil was great though; he welcomed me with open arms. There was no judgement, just encouragement and support from the start. When I weighed in, I realised I was the heaviest I had ever been. The person at the scales said to me ‘don’t worry, that’s the last time you’ll see that number’. It was just the boost I needed. And you know what, she was right!”

Ali, who lives with her daughter Rosie, 24, got stuck straight into Slimming World’s healthy eating plan. She says: “I cook meals from scratch now and I’m so much more organised – which means I’m never tempted to eat something unhealthy when I’m on-the-go. I don’t feel like I’m on a diet and I’m never hungry because I’m still eating normal, everyday foods. My partner Dave has been so supportive too.

“It works easily for us a family and I love that we can all enjoy the same meals. We’re big foodies in our house and Rosie will often send me TikToks of recipes she wants to try. We go through the ingredients and see what we need to swap to make it Slimming World-friendly. We never feel like we’re missing out because we’re always trying new things. Hunter’s chicken lasagne is our current favourite.”

Over time, Ali started incorporating more activity into her daily routine with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme. She says: “At nearly 23st, exercise was a total no-go for me. When I had lost 6st, I plucked up the courage to join a dance fitness class. I fell in love with it and ended up completing my diploma in exercise to music, so I now run my own classes twice a week. I love it when other Slimming World members come along, we have so much fun. I can’t imagine my life without dancing, so I feel confident about keeping these habits up and the weight off this time. I also joined a local Couch to 5K group and recently signed up for a marathon.”

And being named Woman of the Year isn’t the only title Ali has picked up this year – she’s now also known as ‘Nanny’ to her seven-week-old grandson, Taran. She says: “When my daughter Claudia, 29, told me that she was pregnant, I was over the moon. There are certain things I missed out on when raising my daughters because of my size – I was often the mum on the sidelines holding the bags and not getting involved – and looking back that makes me feel so sad. I feel like being Taran’s nanny is a second chance for me – I’ll be fit, active and healthy enough to keep up with him and enjoy those early years. 

“Ultimately, I started this journey because I wanted to live life to the fullest – and that’s what I feel I can do now. These days I’m not a heart attack waiting to happen – I’m the woman I always wanted to be.”

Carolyn Pallister, registered dietitian and Head of Nutrition, Research & Health at Slimming World added: “Ali is truly inspiring and demonstrates what can be achieved, without resorting to weight loss drugs or surgery. Ali has lost weight through making important healthy behaviour changes that have not only helped her lose 13st but have equipped her with lifelong healthy habits, not just for her but for her family too, and the confidence that she can maintain it for life.” 

You can view a video of Ali’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Ali Ridgley 
Age: 52
Height: 5ft 6ins/167cm
Starting weight: 22st 13½lbs/145kg/321½lbs 
Current weight: 9st 13½lbs/63kg/139½lbs  
Weight loss: 13st/82kg/182lbs
Dress size before: 28-30
Dress size now: 6-8
Joined current Slimming World group: 2019
Group: Ali attends the Southway Slimming World group in Devon, which is ran by Consultant Neil Fenton

Before menu
Breakfast: White toast or cereal with butter
Lunch: Shop-bought baguette with crisps and chocolate
Dinner: Pie, mash and gravy
Snacks: Biscuits in the evening

After menu
Breakfast: Cereal with fruit and fat-free natural yogurt
Lunch: Usually leftovers, such as cottage pie and veg from the evening before
Dinner: Homemade hunters chicken lasagne or cheesy courgette baked risotto
Snacks: Slimming World high-fibre bars, glass of red wine, bar of chocolate

– ends –

Mother-of-two Donna says: “I’ve struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember and as a teenager, I felt I weighed more than my friends. I often ate emotionally, whether I was happy or sad I would turn to food. I’ve tried many fad diets throughout my adult life – you name it, I’ve probably tried it! I found that I could lose weight, but I quickly put all of it back on again when the diet ended. 

“When I was at my highest weight, I was prescribed tablets by my GP to help with my high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Working in health, I was embarrassed I’d let it get this far. I knew what the outcomes of these conditions could look like, and it made me nervous thinking about what the future would be if I didn’t do something."
 

Donna and her friend, Janet, discovered they both wanted to lose weight and joined their local Slimming World group in January 2023. Although Donna admits she felt daunted on that first night, she was warmly welcomed by her Consultant and the other group members. 

She says: “I was worried that getting weighed each week would be stressful and embarrassing, but I soon realised it was anything but. My weight was confidential – just between me and the person weighing me and I found getting weighed each week kept me motivated and accountable, too. Everyone in group is friendly and so supportive. We really are all in it together.” 

Since then, Donna has lost 6st 2½lbs following Slimming World’s healthy eating plan and is still able to enjoy her favourite meals like curry and chilli. She says: “Before joining Slimming World, I would often skip breakfast and this would lead to me having big portions of every other meal I ate. Now, I love breakfast and usually opt for Weetabix with a banana. I’ve also swapped convenience meals for homemade Slimming World recipes and I always have meals from the Slimming World Free Food range at Iceland in the freezer for when I’m pushed for time. 

“My husband enjoys the same meals as me, which is really helpful as we don’t have to spend time preparing different foods and I stay on track.” 

Reaching her target weight in February 2024, Donna has put her type 2 diabetes into remission. Her high blood pressure medicine has also been reduced. 

Donna’s inspirational story backs up research published in the journal Archives of Diabetes & Obesityⁱ, showing that, of the Slimming World members surveyed who were living with type 2 diabetes and had lost weight, a third reported their diabetes had gone into remission. This increased to 51% for those who’d lost at least 10% of their body weight. More than 61% were able to reduce or stop taking their diabetes medication, and 81% saw improvements in their blood glucose (also known as blood sugar levels) management. 

As well as improving her health and relationship with food, Donna has grown in confidence and motivation, increasing her activity levels with Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which encourages members to gradually increase the amount of fitness they do and to choose activity they enjoy. Donna is now learning how to play golf and she regularly goes for walks with friends. 

She says: “My Slimming World journey began with my friend, and I’m delighted that we’ve both reached our target weights. Not only has my health improved, I can now run around after my grandchildren. I’ve made new friends at my Slimming World group and changed my life for the better.” 

Robert Ince, who runs the Inverness Slimming World group, which Donna attends, says: “Donna is such an inspirational member and it’s been amazing to watch her journey unfold. 

“Our group is filled with support and encouragement. Donna now regularly shares ideas and gets involved in conversations, and always cheers everyone on.” 

This World Diabetes Day, we're proud to partner with Diabetes UK to help raise awareness of diabetes, and the support they provide for many people living with and affected by the condition.

ⁱ Study polled 222 members with type 2 diabetes in May 2020. Data where blood glucose and weight change is reported refers to members with type 2 diabetes who were members for six months or more.
 

Sarah Williams, 41, who’s been named Slimming World’s Diamond Member of the Year 2024, says her weight was holding her back from enjoying her life with her family, including going on bike rides or swimming with her children. It wasn’t until 2013, when she and her husband Lee decided to get married after 13 years together though, that Sarah decided it was time to make a change.

After losing her dad in 2012, Sarah took comfort in food. She says: “I’d been overweight from being a child. And by the time I had my children, Millie, now 18 and Maisie, now 14, in my late twenties, my weight had completely spiralled out of control. I was at my heaviest after my dad passed – I felt unhappy and was ashamed and frustrated with my weight.”

Sarah tried various quick fix weight loss methods, such as meal replacement shakes, in the past but found them difficult to sustain. She says: “I was living on shakes as a substitute for food and if I lost any weight, it always felt impossible to keep it off. And before I knew it, I’d be back at square one. I was just miserable and hungry, and knew I couldn’t carry on this way.”

In a new study, more than half of UK adults (56%) say they’ve followed a fad diet^[1] in an attempt to lose weight with almost three quarters of those (71%) reporting they didn't lose any weight or didn’t lose as much weight as they wanted^[2], and 11% gained weight.

The online survey of more than 2,000 adults^[3] commissioned by Slimming World, found of the 1,123 UK adults who’d tried a fad diet, more than a third (38%) say they found it on social media and 35% said they could only stick to it for up to six days.  

Sarah continues: “Lee and I were so excited to finally get married. I knew I wanted to feel my best for our special day, however I felt anything but that when I was trying on dresses. Looking back now, I hadn’t coped well with the grief of losing my dad, and it made me realise how much I wanted to be around for my family for as long as possible. I knew the only way I could that though was by looking after myself first – and that started with my weight.”

With the wedding a year away, Sarah decided to try losing weight with Slimming World, which is celebrating its Emerald Anniversary this month after 55 years of supporting people to lose weight. She says: “I’d been a member in the past so knew I was in a safe environment, however I still felt embarrassed walking back into a group at first. I was instantly reminded of why I had no reason to be though, everyone was so lovely and welcoming. While I’d wanted to lose weight the times I’d tried before, something had clicked when I listened to my Consultant Paula explain the importance of building healthy new habits, and I’d realised the only way I could do that was by changing my habits – and for good this time. I had a different mindset from that very first group.”

Sarah got stuck straight into Simming World’s healthy eating plan. She says: “I knew the plan worked, but reading through the books I was given at my first group with fresh eyes helped me embrace it in a completely different way and see where I might have got tripped up in the past. I used these, alongside the Slimming World app to start planning my meals ahead of my weekly shop and found it helped steer away from self-sabotaging as I was becoming more aware of my trigger foods. However, knowing that I could still enjoy a treat when I fancied, like a lager, helped me stay on track. I was just learning how to enjoy it in moderation now and going to the group each week helped me to turn the changes I was making into habits.

“The way I shop, cook and eat has changed now. I cook homemade meals from scratch, like chicken stir-fry or beef stroganoff, every day. It works so easily for us a family too – I love that we can all enjoy the same meals. I’ve never felt like I’m on a diet and I’m never hungry because I’m still eating normal, everyday foods. It’s just a way of life for me now. I managed to lose 3st before my wedding, and felt amazing.”

Over time, Sarah started incorporating more activity into her daily routine with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme. She says: “I wasn’t active at all before. The thought of exercising alone would wear me out! In the past, I had tried the odd gym class with friends, but I felt so unfit and never went back. I was also always too embarrassed to ever go swimming with my children when they were younger, I couldn’t face anyone judging me.

“Now I have new-found love for exercise. Paula explained how the programme worked and I loved that I could start at my own pace, take it at my own time – and get awards for my progress!  It motivated me to try new things too. I started a circuits class at my local gym once a week, and as my confidence grew and my fitness improved, I joined a few more classes. I think it’s been an important part of helping me to keep the weight off.”

Sarah credits Slimming World’s Slim for Life plan, which is a personalised 12-week plan to help members confidently transition from losing to maintaining their weight, for providing her with the tools she needed to sustain her weight loss long-term. She says: “I’m so grateful for Paula and the other members in the group. It hasn’t been plain sailing though, there were times after reaching the target I set myself when I’ve struggled with finding the balance to maintain my weight rather than lose or gain.”

She continues: “I found going to the group every week has helped me not be too hard on myself though and encouraged me to embrace and celebrate non-scale victories too, like feeling confident in new outfits or trying a new fitness class on my own.”

Sarah has maintained her 6st 10lbs weight loss for an incredible nine years, after reaching her target weight in 2015. She says: “Slimming World has completely changed my life. I spent most of my adult life hiding away, too embarrassed to get involved in family activities like swimming or bike riding, and missing out on special occasions because I’d struggle to find something clothes that I felt confident in. Now I’m making up for lost time, and just enjoying life to the fullest!”

She continues: “My relationship with my husband has also benefitted massively – we can enjoy simple things like going on date nights together now because I no longer feel self-conscious. Shopping for clothes is more enjoyable experience too – and something I love doing with my daughters. I couldn’t have done any of it without Paula’s support over these past nine years – I feel so lucky to call her a close friend now too.

“After being with my old company for 23 years, I started a new job at the beginning of this year as a Payroll Clerk at a local accountancy firm. It was a big move, but it’s something I wouldn’t have dreamed of doing before losing weight. I was always pretty comfortable being in the background, now I love meeting new people and can speak confidently in front of a room of people too – it’s quite an empowering feeling! I feel so proud that I’ve been able to be the healthy, happy mum I always wanted to be.”

You can view a video of Sarah’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Sarah Williams 
Age: 41
Height: 5ft 5ins/165cm
Starting weight: 17st 11lbs/249lbs/113kg   
Current weight: 11st 1lb/155lbs/70kg
Weight loss: 6st 10lbs/94lbs/43kg   
Dress size before: 20
Dress size now: 10
Date joined Slimming World: January 2013
Date achieved target: August 2015
Time at target: Nine years
Group: Sarah attends the Sandyford Slimming World group in Stoke-on-Trent, which is held on Thursdays

Before menu
Breakfast: White toast or crumpets with butter or a sugary cereal
Lunch: Baguette or shop-bought pasta salad, crisps, sugary snacks
Dinner: Takeaways or frozen fish & chips or readymade pie and chips
Snacks: Biscuits, crisps, chocolate or savoury pies  

After menu
Breakfast: Overnight oats using fresh fruit like peaches, strawberries and plums
Lunch: Homemade salad with skinless cooked chicken pieces or quiche and couscous salad
Dinner: Slimming World diet cola chicken, fish or chicken stir-fries, steak with homemade chips
Snacks: Fat-free yogurt with fresh fruit, Slimming World high-fibre bars, a half pint of lager or glass of prosecco

[1] Fad diets – promoting rapid weight loss without robust scientific evidence to support them – can be hard to ignore for people keen to lose weight quickly.  Popular ones include plans where you eat a very restrictive diet with few foods or an unusual combination of foods.

[2] Responses include those who lost weight initially but regained more weight than before when stopping

[3] The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,004 nationally representative consumers across the UK (aged 18+) along with a self-selecting sample of 1,380 Slimming World members via Slimming World’s member website. The data was collected between 19.07.2024 - 24.07.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

– ends –

In a new study, more than half of UK adults (56%) say they’ve followed a fad diet[1] in an attempt to lose weight with almost three quarters of those (71%) reporting they didn't lose any weight or didn’t lose as much weight as they wanted[2], and 11% gained weight.

The online survey of more than 2,000 adults[3] commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest weight-loss organisation Slimming World, found of the 1,123 UK adults who’d tried a fad diet, more than a third (38%) say they found it on social media and 35% said they could only stick to it for up to six days.  

The prevalence of fad diets – promoting rapid weight loss without robust scientific evidence to support them – means they can be hard to ignore for people keen to lose weight quickly.

The most common fad diets adults in the UK have tried include weight loss supplements (29%), apple cider vinegar (21%), a juice diet (19%), skinny tea (16%), vitamin water (15%) and the cabbage soup diet (14%).

When property solicitor Amanda Hetherington realised during the pandemic that her weight put her at severe risk from Covid, she knew she had to leave the fad diets behind and make a lasting change. Weighing over 29st, Amanda joined her local Slimming World group – a decision she says ‘changed her life’ – and she went on to lose 15st 7lbs.

Amanda, 39, from Flintshire, says: “I joined my local Slimming World group during Covid. As soon as I found out I was in the high-risk category because of my weight, I felt I had to do something.  When I saw those oxygen machines on the news, that was it for me. I thought this is serious, I’m too young, I can’t die yet. My thoughts went to my family too as I knew if I did pass away I wouldn’t fit in a standard-size coffin.

“Before joining Slimming World, I used to scroll through social media to see who’d lost the most weight in the shortest time and that would be the diet I’d follow, especially if I was going on holiday. I tried every diet under the sun including total food replacement diets which were so restrictive and extreme that I’d always cave in after a couple of days. I’d then be back to square one and feel so upset with myself for failing. That sense of failure would lead me to comfort eat – a vicious cycle I didn’t think I’d ever break free from. I was so tired of yo-yo dieting and not being able to stick to anything. I remember when my husband Gary and I went to see Michael Bublé in concert, instead of going for a lovely meal beforehand, I had a meal replacement shake in our hotel room and Gary went out to buy a meal deal sandwich.”

Amanda says: “It’s incredible to think back to those times looking at me now. Since joining Slimming World I’ve lost 15½st and I love that I’ve lost weight eating healthy everyday food that my family can enjoy too. I’d been a member of Slimming World before, and when a leaflet popped through my door, it reminded me it was the only weight loss method I’d ever followed which I enjoyed.  I’ll admit when I was a member before I didn’t follow the plan properly. I’d do it in the week but go back to my old habits at the weekends. This time, I was committed to making a lasting change which meant changing my mindset. With support from my group, I began building healthy new habits into my daily life.  

“Now, I know losing weight isn’t a quick fix. I’ve gone from a size 36 to a size 12. I’m so much more confident and I no longer have panic attacks about my health.

“With Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, my relationship with food completely changed. I make healthier versions of all my favourite foods. I’m never hungry, and it’s easy to adapt our family meals so we all eat the same thing. My daughter Philippa, three, loves when I make Slimming World's spaghetti and meatballs with lean beef mince and my own sauce from a tin of tomatoes. I’m also a big fan of the Slimming World food range at Iceland especially the Chicken Biryani or Chicken Balti.”

From not being active at all and struggling to go up one flight of stairs, Amanda is now a regular at the gym thanks to Slimming World's activity support programme, which helps you to find activities you enjoy and build up at your own pace.

Amanda says: "I go to fitness classes every week and no longer hide at the back or feel intimidated. It also gave me the confidence to try running. I’d never in my life ran or jogged before, but last year I signed up to the couch to 5k programme with my local running club and completed it! I love running now.

“My Slimming World Consultant Ruth helped keep me motivated each week and supported me throughout my journey. The Slimming World App is great too – I use it every day. Tracking my food and planning my meals in advance is important and the App helps with inspiration on recipes. I also love reading the member success stories.

“Being part of Ruth’s group has been crucial to my success. Each week, I’d get a boost of motivation, fresh ideas and support from Ruth and the other members which helped me to tackle challenges and kept my commitment strong. The accountability of the weekly group is important for me – you don’t realise how well you’re doing until people say so, and with the encouragement of others, I was able to stay committed week after week. Even after moving house, I still travel back to my original group because of the strong friendships I’ve made.”

“Ditching the fad diets was the best decision I ever made – losing weight healthily with Slimming World’s eating plan is a way of life that I will follow forever. The habits that my group help me build and embed are now a way of life for me. I feel confident that I can maintain my weight loss for good.”

The survey, carried out independently by Censuswide, also polled members of Slimming World’s 13,000 community weight loss groups and online programme. Demonstrating Slimming World's effective package of support for long-term weight loss, 93% of members questioned say since joining Slimming World they feel more equipped to make the lasting changes they need as they have the right tools and strategies to help them with their weight loss journey.

Choosing a plan that helps you make mindset and lifestyle changes can be much easier to stick to, as shown in a study published in Clinical Nutrition Open Science[4].  The study found three in four respondents who received support in building healthy habits at a weekly Slimming World group were lighter up to three years after joining, even if they’d stopped attending.

Ruth Newall runs the Runcorn Slimming World group in Cheshire and is Amanda’s Consultant. Ruth says: “Amanda's story is one that many of us can relate to. Before joining my group, she’d told us, that like so many of us, she’d tried every fad diet and quick fix under the sun, only to be left feeling hungry and disheartened. Seeing Amanda lose 15½st while enjoying meals that she loves which keep her full and satisfied is truly inspiring. I'm incredibly proud of her journey – it’s exactly why I became a Slimming World Consultant, to support members like Amanda in making lasting, positive changes.”

Group: Amanda attends the Runcorn Slimming World group in Cheshire run by Consultant Ruth Newall. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Amanda Hetherington

Starting weight: 29st 7lbs/ 187kg

Weight lost: 15st 7lbs/ 98.5kg

Current weight: 14st/ 88.5kg

Height: 5ft 7in/ 1.7m

BEFORE

Breakfast: Cereal with toast and butter

Mid-morning: Cereal bar or chocolate bar  

Lunch: Shop-bought meal deal triple sandwich with mayo, pasty, bag of crisps and a chocolate bar  

Dinner: Takeaway normally a Chinese, beef curry and fried rice or sweet and sour chicken with chips and a variety of starters such as prawn toast or spring rolls followed by a large sharing bar of chocolate

Drinks: Water or diet cola. I’d only drink alcohol when going out socially and this would typically have been wine or cocktails

AFTER

Breakfast: Overnight oats made with fruit and fat free yoghurt

Lunch: Spiced chicken thighs with a halloumi salad in a pitta bread or chicken or tuna pasta salad or an omelette

Dinner: Slimming World's spaghetti and meatballs made with lean beef mince topped with reduced fat cheese served with a mixed salad

Snacks: Homemade hummus with vegetable sticks and a pitta bread with blue cheese quark dip, fruit

Drinks: Water or diet cola. Now when we go out, I’ll have gin and a slimline tonic

[1] Fad diets – promoting rapid weight loss without robust scientific evidence to support them – can be hard to ignore for people keen to lose weight quickly.  Popular ones include plans where you eat a very restrictive diet with few foods or an unusual combination of foods.

[2] Responses include those who lost weight initially but regained more weight than before when stopping

[3] The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,004 nationally representative consumers across the UK (aged 18+) along with a self-selecting sample of 1,380 Slimming World members via Slimming World’s member website. The data was collected between 19.07.2024 - 24.07.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

[4] Published in Clinical Nutrition Open Science

Sam Wilmot, 27, and his fiancée Sophie Bailey, also 27, now have double cause for celebration, with Sam popping the question to Sophie shortly after their win.

Sam, who has lost an amazing 8st since January 2023, says: “We have more confidence and we’re fitter and healthier than ever. Getting married might have been something we’d have thought twice about before because we’d have shied away from the attention – now we can’t wait to celebrate on our big day.”

Slimming World’s Two Together competition aims to find the UK and Ireland’s most inspirational duo of slimmers. This could be a couple, two friends, family members or any two slimmers who attend the same group and have been on their weight loss journey together.

Sophie, who has lost 5st, says: “‘I’ve always been quite athletic and sporty, though my eating habits weren’t the best. I love playing football, but when I hurt my back, it meant I couldn’t play. That, coupled with a sedentary office job, meant I soon gained weight and I suspect that is what was making my back worse. Being in a new relationship with Sam also meant we were eating out all the time too. It got to a stage where we were both unhappy with our weight.”

Sam adds: “I’d been overweight for most of my life – in fact when I was younger a scan revealed I had curved shin bones because of my weight. A love of sport was something Sophie and I bonded over when we first met, but my weight was really holding me back from taking part – I’d become a much more of a spectator.

“The final straw came at Christmas 2022. As with all family occasions the camera soon came out – only this time we were really shocked by the photographs of us. We hardly recognised ourselves. My mum and dad had recently joined a Slimming World group thanks to the encouragement of my auntie Julia and were raving about how good the food was and how friendly the other members were, so that January we decided to take the plunge and join ourselves.”

Although the couple were a little apprehensive about joining a weight loss group, they soon began to enjoy attending their Slimming World group every week.

Sophie says: “The group was nothing like the stereotypes we’d seen on TV. Having Sam’s mum and dad there for support was a huge bonus but looking back we’d have been OK on our own, too. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, and the eating plan was nothing like we were expecting – we're both big foodies so we loved adapting some of our favourite meals to make them Slimming World-friendly.”

After enjoying home-cooked dishes like spicy meatball pasta, Korean beef noodles and vegetable fried rice, Sam and Sophie were thrilled to find themselves losing weight each week.

Sam says: “The camaraderie of our group played a huge part in our success; we love going on a Saturday morning and setting ourselves up for a great week. Being surrounded by people from all walks of life who are all different yet all have a shared goal is really special.”

In time, Sam and Sophie got back into sport with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to introduce – or like Sam and Sophie reintroduce – activity in a way that works with their lifestyle, and to build up at their own pace.

Sophie says: “As I began to feel fitter and healthier I started playing for a local team again, United Bristol Women FC, which I love. Sam has also got back into football by becoming a level 4 referee. I’m so proud of everything he has achieved. Thankfully though he’s only refereed one of my games – it didn’t end well, he tried to send me off!”

Now that Sam and Sophie have both reached their target weights, their new goal is to maintain the weight losses they worked so hard for. Sam says: “We still go to our group every week to check in and stay motivated. Now that we’re at target we feel that eating healthily is just a way of life and we have the odd treat here and there – it's all about balance for us. We know that we have the tools to stay slim for life thanks to Slimming World and the Slim for Life plan.

“For now, we’re busy planning our wedding and feel excited about our future together. We have always made each other happy but now it’s like we have a whole new take on life. There’s no way I could have achieved this without Sophie’s support. We make a great team – I can’t wait to call her my wife one day!”

You can view a video of Sam and Sophie’s story here.

VITAL STATS:
Name: Samuel Wilmot
Age: 27
Height: 5ft 9ins/175cm
Starting weight: 21st 4½lbs/298½lbs/135kg
Current weight: 13st 4½lbs/186½lbs/85kg
Weight loss: 8st/112lbs/50kg    
Size before: XXL
Size now: Medium
Date joined Slimming World: January 2023

VITAL STATS:
Name: Sophie Bailey
Age: 27
Name: Sophie Bailey
Height: 5ft 8ins/172cm
Starting weight: 16st 12lbs/236lbs/107kg   
Current weight: 11st 12lbs/166lbs/75kg 
Weight loss: 5st/70lbs/32kg
Dress size before: 20
Dress size now: 12
Date joined Slimming World: January 2023

Group: Sam and Sophie attend the Yate Slimming World group in Bristol held by Consultant Bonny Mills

Sam’s before menu
Breakfast: Sugary cereal, 2 slices of toast with peanut butter and banana, black coffee    
Lunch: Triple sandwich, crisps and a full-sugar cola plus a brownie               
Dinner: Curry made with a shop-bought jar, rice, naan bread, onion bhajis and samosas  
Snacks: Cereal bar, chocolate bar, tea and biscuits, toast with butter           

Sam’s after menu
Breakfast: Bowl of fat-free natural yogurt, berries, banana, muesli                 
Lunch: Chicken and feta salad with lettuce, tomato, onion and cucumber. High-protein yogurt
Dinner: Homemade tandoori chicken with rice and broccoli or beef stir fry with noodles
Snacks: Low-fat cheese, apples, bananas, hard-boiled eggs            

Sophie’s before menu
Breakfast: 3 slices of toast with butter, plus a pastry or sausage roll mid-morning  
Lunch: Shop bought meal deal with crisps, chocolate and a sugary energy drink   
Dinner: Takeaway chicken burger and chips
Snacks: Pack of bourbon biscuits, toast with butter

Sophie’s after menu
Breakfast: 40g cereal hoops with semi-skimmed milk or beans on toast      
Lunch: Chicken and feta salad with lettuce, tomato, onion and cucumber. High-protein yogurt
Dinner: Tandoori chicken with rice and broccoli or beef stir fry with noodles               
Snacks: Low-fat cheese, apples, bananas, peaches, nectarines 

Over a third (38%) of those unhappy with their weight and who feel nervous ahead of visiting the doctor worry that they could be diagnosed with a health condition, while 23% fear they will be judged about their weight by the doctor.  One in 10 people say they’ve had a bad experience leaving them feeling ashamed about their weight.

People who are unhappy with their weight are 13% more likely to feel this doctor-phobia and feel nervous ahead of visiting the doctor.

The survey of 2,003 UK adults, commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest weight management organisation Slimming World, also reveals 87% of people who are unhappy with their weight and feel nervous ahead of visiting the doctor suffer physical reactions often associated with phobias, such as anxiety (56%), needing the toilet (25%), sweating (22%), nausea (15%) and even shaking (13%) ahead of visiting their doctor.

Almost one in five of those would rather take a maths test (19%), pick up a spider (16%) or hold a snake (15%) than pay a visit to their local surgery.

These worries are seeing people favour online interactions over seeking in-person support, with nearly one in four (24%) admitting they would rather Google health questions than visit the doctor and 10% buying medication online, according to those who are unhappy with their weight and feel nervous ahead of visiting the doctor.

Losing weight can not only improve someone’s health and risk factors for a number of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, the survey shows it can also make a big difference to this urge to dodge the doctors.

A corresponding survey of Slimming World members in the UK and Ireland found that 60% of them feel no nerves ahead of visiting the doctor since losing weight, with more than a third (35%) now actually feeling confident when visiting their doctor. More than three-quarters (77%) say that since joining Slimming World their health has improved.

Carolyn Pallister, registered dietitian and Head of Nutrition, Research and Health at Slimming World, says: “With excess weight being linked to a range of serious health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, the idea that people are actively avoiding getting their health checked or seeking help because of this is really alarming.

“Our survey also showed that people who had previously had negative experiences when visiting the doctor leaving them feeling ashamed about their weight, highlighted a number of reasons including a lack of understanding, the use of blunt or stigmatising language, and a lack of advice and support.

“People living with overweight and obesity need care, compassion and support, and not to feel stigmatised about their weight. At Slimming World, we know that a weight-related conversation between a health professional and a patient, when effective, can lead to life-changing results. That’s why we are encouraging the next government to commit to training for all healthcare professionals to enable sensitive and skilled conversations about weight, as we know they want to support their patients to lead healthier lives, they just need the right tools to do that.

“The training must address the psychological as well as physiological impact of weight on health. From our 55 years’ experience, we know that it’s when people are being treated respectfully, with kindness and understanding, that they’re more likely to make the lifestyle and behaviour changes needed for them to lose weight.”

In Slimming World’s recently launched manifesto, ‘Five-point manifesto to support people and families living with obesity’, they are calling on the new Government, whichever party comes into power, to commit to helping more people living with obesity to lose weight with a personalised approach, improve their health outcomes, and relieve the financial burden on the NHS.

Case study: Slimming World member Lisa Doherty

Lisa Doherty, 44

Starting weight: 13st 11lbs / 87.54kg

Weight now: 9st 11lbs / 62.12kg

Weight loss: 4st

Height: 5ft 4ins

Dress size before: 16 to 18

Dress size now: 8 to 10

Slimming World member Lisa Doherty, 44, can relate to the findings of the survey. She says: “Before losing weight I would avoid going to the doctors at all costs. It started when I was pregnant and on being weighed by my midwife, she was shocked to see the number on the scales and said ‘Oh, you hid that well’. I know she wasn’t trying to be mean or upset me, but I was so conscious and embarrassed about my weight, it really put me off.

“After the pregnancy, I didn’t visit a doctor’s surgery unless I absolutely had to as I was worried I’d be judged because of my weight and be told to move more and eat less, but it isn’t that simple!”

Lisa, an assistant head teacher from Derby, who has since lost 4st, said she was spurred on to join her local Slimming World after realising that her weight meant she was more prone to illness. She says: “After hearing stories of people who had Covid on TV or reading them in the news, I realised that there was often a connection between weight and people being more unwell, and I had people relying on me, and things I wanted to see and do.

“When I first stepped through the doors at my Slimming World group, I was welcomed by everyone, especially Laura, my amazing Consultant. And I was so happy to hear that by making some changes to the way I shopped and making a few clever swaps, I could still enjoy my favourite meals like a roast chicken dinner and lose weight.

“Now I’m happy to visit the doctor, and I’m always ready to share with them how much weight I’ve lost. I didn’t realise just how much my weight was affecting me. It was only when I lost weight and became fitter that I realised how much of a difference it made to both my physical and mental health. I’ve got my confidence back!”

Lisa attends the Slimming World group in Mickleover, run by Consultant Laura Dethick.

UK adults who are unhappy with their weight and feel nervous ahead of visiting the doctor, said they would rather:

·        Take a maths test (19%)

·        Get stuck in a thunderstorm (18%)

·        Be in a confined space (16%)

·        Pick up a spider (16%)

·        Hold a snake (15%)

·        Deliver a presentation to a huge audience (12%)

·        Jump out of an aeroplane (11%)

·        Get trapped in the dark (10%)

·        Scale a tall building (8%)

Mum-of-three Lisa tried a range of weight loss methods, including hypnotherapy and weight loss groups. Over the years, she would lose weight and feel great, but the weight she’d lost always came back on – and more.

After being told that she had type 2 diabetes as well as high blood pressure, it was her increasingly concerning health that led Lisa to decide to take control of her weight for good.  Lisa’s GP gave her three months to make improvements to her health through lifestyle changes, before she would need to go on a variety of medication.

Lisa, who lives with her husband and three daughters, says: “I was at rock bottom, both physically and mentally. I knew I wanted and needed to make a change, but I just didn’t know how."

In February 2022, Lisa joined the Clifton Slimming World group. She says: “Being honest, I wasn’t convinced that it would work. I tried Slimming World years ago but looking back I realise that my head was never really in the game. This time though, my mindset had completely shifted, and I was ready to fully embrace everything Slimming World had to offer to help me on my weight loss journey.

“I was nervous about walking into group for the first time as I was self-conscious and embarrassed about my size. I pushed through the nerves though as I knew I had to do it for myself. I’m so glad I did, it’s the best decision I’ve ever made – for me and my family.

“I was welcomed straight away by my Consultant Sacha and the other group members, and I felt reassured and relieved. Everyone at group is so supportive and there is never any judgement.”

Lisa has since lost more than half her body weight by following Slimming World’s Food Optimising healthy eating plan and is still able to enjoy her favourite meals like a roast chicken dinner with her family. She has also increased her fitness and activity levels with Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme, and she now loves to do aqua aerobics and Clubbercise at her local leisure centre.

After losing more than 13st and increasing her activity levels, Lisa is now able to walk without being short of breath and will be taking part in a 5km event from Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life event series.

Lisa says: “I no longer see exercise as the enemy – I love it! I have gone from struggling to climb the stairs to climbing Snowdon and enjoying every second of it. I’m also gearing up for my upcoming Race for Life event and if you’d told me three years ago that I would be whizzing around a 5km course without becoming breathless, I’d have laughed in your face – now I can’t wait!"

Slimming World Consultant Sacha Patchett, who runs the group in Clifton that Lisa attends each week, says: “I’m so proud of Lisa and how she has embraced every element of her weight loss journey. She’s an inspiration to us all and I know she is going to love crossing the finish line at her Race for Life event!”

Alongside losing weight and improving her fitness, Lisa has also reversed her high blood pressure and seen her type 2 diabetes condition go into remission. Not only that, she has also gained stacks of confidence and can do things that she never thought she’d be able to, such as snorkelling and swimming with dolphins. She says: “I love getting involved in all kinds of activities and no longer feel held back by my weight. I can now accompany my youngest daughter who’s nine, on rides at the theme park and fit into wetsuits for underwater holiday excursions.”

Slimming World, which has been working with Cancer Research UK for more than a decade and has helped to raise more than £20m in fundraising, is an official sponsor of Race for Life 2024.

To enter, visit raceforlife.org  

Lisa says: “I used having my children as an excuse to not worry about my weight gain - everyone gains a bit of baby weight, right? After having my youngest child, I was diagnosed with postnatal depression, which was later diagnosed as depression, and this led to years of ups and downs, and I would always seek comfort in food. When I lost my dad to cancer 16 years ago, I also turned to food and would eat my feelings. This seemed to be my go-to strategy for life.”

It was during the Covid-19 lockdowns that Lisa found the motivation and commitment to make a change.

She says: “After hearing stories of people who had Covid on TV or reading them in the news, I realised that being overweight often meant people were more unwell, and I had people relying on me, and things I wanted to see and do.

“When I first stepped through the doors at my Slimming World group, I was welcomed by everyone, especially Laura, my amazing Consultant."

Lisa has since lost 4st following Slimming World’s Food Optimising healthy eating plan and is still able to enjoy her favourite meals like a roast chicken dinner. She has also increased her activity levels with Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme. Her fitness journey started by following the workout videos available on the Slimming World app, doing ten minutes per day, and gradually built this up over time. This led Lisa to try a variety of sports, and running became a firm favourite. She took on the Couch to 5k programme and hasn’t looked back.

She continues: “I didn’t realise just how much being overweight was affecting me. It was only when I lost weight and became fitter that I realised how much of a difference it made to both my physical and mental health.”

As well as achieving her target weight, Lisa completed the 2024 London Marathon as part of the Slimming World team consisting of Slimming World members, Consultants, and Head Office staff.

The team raised funds for Cancer Research UK, the Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, Slimming World’s official charity partners.

Lisa ran the marathon for Cancer Research UK, in honour of her dad, as well as aiming to increase awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can improve people’s health and help reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer.

Lisa says: “I’ve seen first-hand how cancer can take loved ones away from you and the lasting effect it has on the family, and that’s why I want to do all I can to help those living with and impacted by cancer. Running the marathon was a fitting tribute to my dad as we used to go for runs together when I was younger. It was a dream come true to cross that finish line and a reflection of how far I’ve come. I was thinking of him all the way around.

“Alongside the marathon, I’m taking part in the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw by donating the clothes that no longer fit me to Cancer Research UK charity shops to sell.”

Slimming World Consultant Laura Dethick, who runs the group in Mickleover that Lisa attends each week, says: “Lisa is such an inspirational member and loves to try and recruit members to join her on her runs. Watching her become the confident and passionate runner that she is today has been incredible and I know she inspires others – we are all so proud of her!"

Slimming World has raised more than £20 million for Cancer Research UK through a variety of campaigns including The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and supporting the charity’s Race for Life event series.

Last year, Slimming World members, Consultants and head office staff raised £1,491,191.49 for Cancer Research UK through The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and continues to aim higher year on year.

Toni Calland, 35, who lives in Liverpool with husband Mark and her four children Nicole, 16, Lewis, 14 Jacob, 11 and five-year-old Jordan, says: “When Mark asked me to marry him in I was over the moon, but the thought of finding a wedding dress to fit me and being the centre of attention on the day made me feel ill. I didn’t want to go to any bridal shops as I worried there would be nothing in my size. In the end, I ordered my dress online. While it did the job, I never really loved it the way I should have done. I felt uncomfortable and when I look back at the photos from our special day, I didn’t like how I looked at all.”

Stay-at-home-mum Toni gained weight with each of her pregnancies. She says: “My weight was starting to affect my health drastically. I suffered with a bad back and had to have MRI and CT scans to find out the cause of the problems. When the doctor told me it was down to my weight, I struggled to accept it. My mental health was also affected. I would avoid any sort of social situation and never took my children to parties like the other mums, I would stay at home feeling embarrassed and ashamed.”

Weighing more than 19 stone at her heaviest, Toni had attempted to lose weight before but always felt like she was fighting a losing battle. She says: “I tried weight loss tablets from my GP and even saw a private doctor who prescribed multiple tablets for me to try. While they’d all work for a while it was only ever short term, and I would soon be back to my old ways – snacking on sugary foods in the evening and finishing the kids’ leftovers after our meals.

“The turning point for me came when my son made a comment about me being a ‘fat mummy’. I always worried about people commenting on my size – that’s a lot of the reason why I tried to hide myself in over-sized black clothes and avoid social situations. For my own child to notice was a moment of clarity for me. I knew, for the sake of my children, I wanted to be a heathy role model and an active mum.”

Toni’s friend was a Slimming World Consultant, so she decided to go along to her local group. She says: “I was nervous at the thought of joining a group. I worried about a stranger seeing my weight, but I have to say it was by far the best decision of my life. I’ve learnt to make small changes that make a big difference like swapping to low-calorie spray rather than oil and switching white bread for wholemeal. My group and Consultant Clare were so supportive too – they’re always there with advice if I’ve had a bit of a setback. I don’t worry if I have a gain every now and again because it happens to us all.  I found hearing about the success of other members really motivating and loved reading stories in Slimming World Magazine or on the Slimming World app.”

With Slimming World’s eating plan, members can enjoy a wide range of healthy everyday foods such as lean meat and poultry, fat-free dairy, pasta, rice and grains, and fruit and veg, to satisfy their appetite. This freedom and variety means that slimmers can reduce their calorie intake without counting calories, lose weight without being hungry, and personalise the plan to their dietary requirements and way they like eating.

Toni continues: “After such a long time of thinking I had to massively restrict myself, I couldn’t believe that I’d be able to lose weight by eating normal, everyday food. I always craved unhealthy snacks and sugary treats in the evening. I soon found though that filling up on healthy meals throughout the day kept the cravings at bay.”

“Being part of the group helped me to understand my own relationship with food more deeply, which is what has enabled me to take control and change my mindset around food and drink – and even start to exercise.”

After a few months, Toni found that losing weight steadily and eating healthily caused her energy levels to increase. She says that hearing about Slimming World’s physical activity support programme in her group encouraged her to think about how she could build exercise into her life.

Toni continues: “I love walking and being out and about in nature and I’m now a member at the gym as well. Being able to do the things I do now is just a dream come true for me.”

Toni’s new-found confidence is a far cry from how she felt on her wedding day. She says: “So much has changed since losing weight, my outlook on life, the quality time I spend with my children, my health and my confidence. When I look back on the photographs from my wedding my only wish is that I felt the way I do now. Mark and I have been talking about renewing our wedding vows one day. I’d be so excited to get to experience it all over again feeling amazing this time.”

On a recent visit to Derbyshire Toni called in to Stately Brides bridal shop where she finally got the experience she’d always dreamed of. Toni says “I met Leanne from Stately Brides and we picked out dresses I could’ve only dreamed of wearing before, dresses off the rails that fit perfectly and which I felt incredible in. I felt like a princess! I’m the best version of myself for me and for my family too. I’m living my best life and that’s an incredible feeling.”

VITAL STATS:

 Name: Toni Calland

Age: 35

Height: 5ft 10ins/177cm

Starting weight: 19st 1lb/121kg/267lbs

Current weight: 12st 8lbs/80kg/176lbs

Weight loss: 6st 7lbs/41kg/91lbs

Dress before: 22

Dress size now: 10-12

Joined Slimming World: 10/01/2022

Group: Toni attends the Old Swan Slimming World group run by Consultant Clare Graves

Before menu

Breakfast: Butchers sausage sandwich

Lunch: Fast-food burger or fried chicken and chips or café trip – usually a chicken burger or mayonnaise-rich pasta salad

Dinner: Doner kebab and chips from the takeaway

Snacks: Crisps, chocolate, croissants or cakes

After menu

Breakfast: Poached egg, lean bacon, beans, tomatoes and mushrooms

Lunch: Jacket potato with tuna and sweet chilli salad or a Slimming World Lunch Bowl from the range at Iceland

Snack: Fruit with fat-free Greek natural yoghurt and a drizzle of honey

Dinner: Homemade spaghetti Bolognese or chicken tikka masala with vegetables and boiled rice

– ends –

Joanne Kiddell, 48, struggled with her weight for most of her life, and says being diagnosed with a serious health condition that can cause sight loss was ‘a wake-up call’ that helped her to lose weight for good.

She says: “I was bigger than other people my age for as long as I can remember. I started comfort eating from a very early on because of my size. It only got worse as I got older. I had to tried to lose weight in the past, and even lost weight with Slimming World before – I wasn’t in the right mindset though and didn’t stick to the plan long enough to see any long-term results. My confidence was at an all-time low and I struggled to get involved in social activities with my family.”

In 2019 Joanne was diagnosed with a neurological condition called intracranial hypertension (IH), which she was told was linked to her weight. She says: “The diagnosis was the wake-up call I needed. I knew I had to make a change now if I wanted to live to see my grandkids grow up.”

Joanne joined her local Slimming World group in Norwich. She says: “In the beginning, I was anxious about staying for the group session. I was embarrassed about being the biggest person in the room, but I had no reason to be worried.

“Going to the group every week – and staying for the support from my Consultant, Rebecca Jones, and the other members – helped me to get a better understanding of the plan and how important it is to fuel my body with food that makes me feel good. The advice and tools I got each week enabled me to think more deeply about my relationship with food – which has completely changed now – and my group helped me incorporate healthy new habits and overcome any setbacks.

“I used to be an emotional eater and knew that would be my biggest hurdle to overcome. Now I don’t have to think twice about what I’m eating as it’s just a part of my lifestyle. There’s so much flexibility, so if I crave a sweet snack I know that I can enjoy something that’s not going to take off me track, rather than feeling deprived. I no longer rely on takeaways either and enjoy making my own healthier versions from scratch. I’m always trying new recipes from Slimming World Magazine and tend batch cook my favourite meals, like the diet cola chicken.”

The support of her local group and Consultant Rebecca kept Joanne focused on getting to the target weight she’d set. She says: “Knowing I had such a long way to go to reach my goal felt overwhelming at first, however Rebecca encouraged me to break it down into smaller, more achievable goals, which helped. And as I hit each milestone, the ultimate goal became more and more possible. And hearing about other members’ achievements in the group, who were all on a similar journey to me, made me feel like I could do it too.”

VITAL STATS:
Name: Joanne Kiddell
Age: 47
Height: 5ft 7ins/170cm
Starting weight: 27st 9lbs/387lbs/175kg   
Current weight: 11st 6.5lbs/160lbs/72kg
Weight loss: 16st 2.5lbs/226lbs/102kg   
Dress size before: 32
Dress size now: 10
Date joined Slimming World: July 2019

Group: Joanne attends the Norwich (Road House) Slimming World group in Norfolk which is held on Wednesdays

Before menu
Breakfast: Toast from a white loaf with butter or sugary cereal
Lunch: Sandwiches or shop-bought sandwiches, crisps, sugary snack bar
Dinner: Chinese or Indian takeaway, ready-made pizza or ready meals
Snacks: Chocolate, crisps, cakes

After menu
Breakfast: Fresh fruit, like pineapple, grapes, strawberries and banana, with fat- free natural yogurt or overnight oats with blueberries
Lunch: Homemade vegetable soup, packed with leek, onions and carrots, or a roast chicken or tuna salad with a baked potato
Dinner: Chicken stir-fry with rice noodles, Slimming World diet cola chicken or a beef chilli with rice, using a homemade sauce
Snacks: Slimming World Hi-fi bar, fruit, packet of cheese curls, fun-size chocolate bar

– ends –

Before losing weight, Joanne’s mobility was very limited. She says: “My ability to move was holding me back from enjoying my life. I didn’t do any exercise at all and even walking was very difficult for me, so I loved that with Slimming World I could get started at my own pace and when I was ready.”

Slimming World’s physical activity support programme is completely tailorable to each member in a way that suits their lifestyle. Joanne says: “My mobility has improved tenfold, and as a result so has my mental and physical health. Activity has become a part of my life now. I walk a lot more now and use an exercise bike at home. I’ve also joined a gym near me and enjoy attending the fitness classes there – something I would never have the confidence to do before.”

Since losing weight, the mum of two has put her IH into remission and is now looking forward to making special memories with her family. Joanne says: “Losing was the best decision I have ever made. My life has changed beyond recognition. I no longer have to take medication for my IH, and it’s a huge relief not having to worry about losing my sight. I’m living a much a healthier and happier life, with my family now, rather than watching from the sidelines.

“I am now able to do all the things with my granddaughters Charlotte and Grace, that I missed out on with my own children – like swimming. For the first time ever, I had the confidence to play in the pool with them on holiday, which is such a lovely memory that I truly cherish.”

Joanne’s confidence has also soared. She says: “I love shopping for clothes now, and being more adventurous with fashion. Before losing weight, my choices were very limited and I could only shop in specialist stores, which were really expensive – now I love being able to walk into any shop without worrying about whether anything will fit me.

Since joining Slimming World in 2019, Joanne has lost a total of 16st 2.5lbs and is looking forward to hitting her target weight of 11st 4lbs. She says: “I could never have pictured myself 16st lighter five years ago, let alone being named Slimming World’s Greatest Loser! Walking through those doors has by far been the best decision I made for myself. I finally feel like I’m really living life and couldn’t be happier.”

You can view a video of Joanne’s story here.

In a new study, 53 per cent of UK adults say that just one setback can derail them from their weight loss goals, with almost one in five (19 per cent) saying a setback made them give up on their weight loss goals altogether. 

The survey of 2,003 adults[1], commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest weight-loss organisation Slimming World, reveals 77 per cent of adults say they’ve previously attempted to lose weight and on average people have tried to lose weight seven times in their lifetime.

Of those who had experienced a setback while trying to lose weight, 38 per cent say the top cause was feeling hungry and 29 per cent say it was a stressful life event such as a bereavement, job loss or family illness. For others, it was missing out on their favourite foods (25 per cent), and not planning healthy meals (23 per cent) which derailed them. 

The top temptations which can cause setbacks, according to those surveyed who have tried to lose weight, are having unhealthy snacks such as chocolate, crisps, cakes and biscuits in the house (41 per cent), Saturday night takeaways (21 per cent), cakes and pastries when buying coffee (20 per cent) and fast food after a night out drinking (18 per cent).

Lydia Collins, 38, from Solihull in the West Midlands, had been struggling to lose weight since her late teens. Lydia was no stranger to abandoning her weight loss goals after experiencing a setback, until she joined her local Slimming World group in October 2017 – a decision she says “changed her life” as she went on to lose 7st.

Lydia says: “If I’m honest I’ve probably always struggled with my weight, but it really started creeping up from about 16.  I started thinking I was too cool to do sport at school and discovered takeaways and going out with friends.

“I tried so many different ways to lose weight, but nothing worked. I was always hungry and I felt miserable. My health was suffering, I used to limp as I had excruciating pain in my ankles due to the strain from how much weight I was carrying. My weight made me feel anxious too – I’d worry what people thought of me and I’d hate walking into a room full of people. Even collecting my children from school terrified me in case my kids would get picked on because of my weight.

“It was on a family holiday in Wales, that I realised I had to make a change. Our holiday home was a short walk up a very steep hill. I got halfway up the hill, I could barely breathe and thought I was going to have a heart attack. Everyone else breezed past me and when I finally got back to the house, after crawling on the last stretch, I was so embarrassed and worried about my health I knew I had to do something.

“I’d been a member of Slimming World before, and when a friend mentioned she was joining a local group, I asked if I could go with her.  It was the only weight loss method I’d ever followed which I enjoyed and knew it worked.

“I threw myself into the plan and made healthier versions of all my favourite foods so I never felt like I was missing out.”

Lydia says: “Since joining Slimming World I’ve lost 7st and I love that I’ve lost weight eating healthy everyday food that my family can enjoy too. I cook all day in my job as a catering manager so I don’t want to come home and prepare different meals for everyone in the house! From being a regular takeaway queen on a Saturday night, I’m now a fakeaway queen, replacing all our family favourites with healthier versions – which they say they much prefer!

“My Slimming World Consultant helped me to understand my personal ‘danger zones’ and how planning my meals ahead would help me from getting derailed and feeling hopeless. I would always skip breakfast meaning I’d snack all the way to lunch. Now, I prep my breakfast the night before, fill up on egg muffins or omelettes for lunch.

“I no longer reach for the quick, easy high in fat ‘convenience’ foods I used to as I was always so tired and too busy to cook anything else. Now I cook pretty much everything from scratch and I bring the children in to help me – cooking as a family makes it so much more enjoyable.

“I’m not perfect though – I'm human and things don’t always go to plan – and I’ve learned that’s ok. So now, when I have a setback, I know it doesn’t have to mean I’ve blown it.

“Since losing weight, I’ve gone from a size 22 to a size 10 and while my anxiety will never fully leave me, I’m so much less anxious since losing weight. I now have so many hopes and dreams for the future – like doing a sky dive one day. Slimming World’s activity support programme helped me go from being barely active to a regular gym member and a keen runner – I never thought I’d say that, but being able to take it at my own pace made it doable! I’d also love to run the London Marathon.

“My no 1 piece of advice for anyone trying to lose weight is to be kind to yourself. It’s nice to know I’ve inspired those I love to also take a step to a healthier and happier lifestyle. My husband Gareth has joined and lowered his cholesterol after losing weight. I knew it was my mindset that had to change, and I soon discovered being kinder to myself helped me navigate the bumps in the road. I feel I’m the best version of myself because I’m happier inside and out.”

Dr Amanda Avery, Slimming World’s Health and Research Consultant Dietitian says learning how to handle setbacks is crucial for long-term weight loss success.  She says: “As Lydia says, setbacks can happen on a weight loss journey. Things don't always go perfectly to plan and that's life. What’s key when this happens, as Lydia found out, is to be kind to yourself.  Learning to accept that a setback is part of your slimming journey can stop you being derailed altogether. The results of the survey support this, with more than half of adults questioned (57 per cent) agreeing that learning how to deal with setbacks on their weight loss journey helped them to navigate the ups and downs of weight loss.”

Dr Avery adds: "It's good to have some personal strategies for dealing with potential setbacks or, even better, have strategies to try to minimise the risk of setbacks. Within Slimming World groups, members receive personalised expert guidance from their Consultant, to help them with the motivation, accountability and commitment they need to avoid or navigate setbacks.  By equipping group and online members with the tools to build their resilience and be more self-compassionate, as well as sharing practical real-life strategies, Slimming World helps members feel empowered to overcome obstacles and stick with their weight loss plans.”

Claire Pykett runs the Knowle Slimming World group in Solihull, West Midlands and is Lydia’s Slimming World Consultant.  Claire says: “When Lydia walked through the doors to my group that first night, I could see she was absolutely ready to make a fresh start. Each week, with support, Lydia grew in confidence. While we were working on her personalised plan, we discovered Lydia struggled with a setback every Saturday night having the takeaways that the family loved. We discussed adapting these family takeaways into healthier versions cooked at home, and now she proudly tells us her family much prefer her fakeaways and she’s saved money!  I’m so proud of Lydia and how far she’s come – not only with her weight loss but also with her confidence and her self-compassion.”

The survey, carried out by Censuswide, also polled members of Slimming World’s 13,000 community weight loss groups and online programme. Of the members questioned, 82 per cent feel more capable of dealing with setbacks than they did when making previous weight loss attempts. The vast majority (72 per cent) of members questioned said they’re less likely to experience setbacks now they’re a member of Slimming World, due to the flexibility and support the plan provides and 84 per cent agree they’re more confident in their ability to recover from a setback while losing weight than they were before joining.

Slimming World’s approach combines support to change your mindset around weight loss with a flexible healthy eating plan and a physical support activity programme – both of which can be tailored to your lifestyle and ability. Members, who attend a weekly group or access support online, gain knowledge and expertise to understand themselves better as a slimmer. They are encouraged to use deep thinking and techniques including visualisation and planning to build their motivation, self-belief and commitment so they can change their relationship with food, physical activity and weight loss in general and achieve long lasting success.

Professor James Stubbs, Appetite & Energy Balance, University of Leeds, agrees having a flexible mindset is important to any weight loss endeavour. 

Group: Lydia attends the Knowle Slimming World group in Solihull, West Midlands on Saturday mornings run by Consultant Claire Pykett. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Lydia Collins

Starting weight: 18st 4lbs

Weight lost: 7st

Current weight: 11st 4lbs

Height: 5ft 7in

BEFORE

Breakfast: Usually nothing

Mid-morning: Toast and two bags of crisps  

Lunch: Cheese sandwich, mini pork pie  

Mid-afternoon: Pork pie

Dinner: Takeaway

Drinks: Numerous coffees with two sugars each

AFTER

Breakfast: Egg muffins or boiled eggs or an omelette 

Lunch: Healthy sandwich

Dinner: Fakeaways (healthy home-cooked versions of our favourite takeaways) or roast dinner

Snacks: Veg sticks with blue cheese quark dip or homemade hummus or fruit

Drinks: Black coffee, hot water with lemon, peppermint or green tea

[1] The research was conducted by Censuswide, among samples of 2,003 nationally representative UK general consumers along with a self-selecting sample of 1,748 Slimming World members via Slimming World’s website.  The data was collected between 12.03.2024 and 18.03.2024. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council.

He says: “I’ve tried every diet under the sun like calorie counting, eating grapefruit with every meal, shakes and soups, and believed nothing worked for me. I’d got set ideas about what dieting involved, and it wasn’t fun at all. I couldn’t be convinced otherwise, and as soon as Sati had given up trying to convert me to Slimming World, I put any thoughts of losing weight out of my head.”

After a visit to his GP though, Bill was diagnosed with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, and his asthma had worsened as his weight increased. The new diagnoses scared him, and he knew he could no longer avoid his weight, so decided to relent and give Slimming World a try.

Bill says: “I could see Sati’s excitement as she explained that Slimming World was all about healthy eating, and nothing like the faddy diets I’d tried in the past – and she promised me I wouldn’t be going hungry. Now that was something I could really get on board with.

“After a chat, we took the decision that, yes, I’d join Slimming World, but I’d go to a different group to Sati, so we could both have our own weight loss journeys. If Slimming World really could help me take control of my health, and I wouldn’t have to exist on shakes or soups, then what did I have to lose?

“On the first day at group when my Consultant told me I weighed 19st 7½lbs, it was a real eye-opener – it was far more than I’d ever imagined.”

Bill, who lives with Sati and teenage son Rohan, says: “Although I’d listened as my Consultant explained the plan and I realised I wouldn’t have to stop eating the meals I loved to make at home – like chickpea curry, tarka dhal and keema – I still didn’t believe they could taste as good.

“‘It was with a heavy heart that I made my first Slimming World Food Optimising chicken tikka masala, leaving out the ingredients I believed to be essential. I’d cooked the meat in low-calorie cooking spray, and there was no sugary sauce from a jar because everything was cooked from scratch. As we sat down to eat, though, I couldn’t believe how delicious it was.”

Since joining Slimming World in July 2022, Bill has lost 6st 7lbs and is now a target member. His health has transformed, and his blood pressure is now stable.

He says: “After only a few months of attending Slimming World my GP told me I was looking very fit and well, and then at my next review, he said with a smile: ‘The good news is, we’re going to be able to reduce your medication. Well done – you’ve done all this yourself.’ I was so proud of myself.”

As well as changes to their diet, Bill and Sati also encouraged each other to take part in Slimming World’s physical activity support programme: “To start with, we’d walk around our local area, challenging ourselves to get in 5,000 steps a day. That number became easier and easier to hit, so we’ve raised our goals, now doing up to 8,000 steps and trying some of the activity videos on the members’ app at home, too.”

Sati has also reached her weight-loss goal, losing 5st.

“Losing weight has transformed my life, to the absolute delight of my ever-loving wife and son. And I can even forgive Sati when she occasionally digs me in the ribs and says: ‘I told you so!’

“I’m convinced my health improvements have all been down to my new lifestyle. My blood pressure is stable, I’m medication free, my type 2 diabetes is now in remission, my asthma symptoms have gone, and my GP has told me there is no fat around my liver.”

Before losing weight, Bill was diagnosed with high blood pressure. Consistent high blood pressure puts the heart and blood vessels under extra strain, as well as other organs, and it can lead to a number of health problems including stroke, heart disease and heart attacks.

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the second biggest killer in England, causing a quarter of all deaths. Yet, many of these deaths are preventable as high blood pressure can often be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, and making lifestyle changes leading to a longer, healthier life.

A new NHS England campaign has been launched to raise awareness of how high blood pressure (hypertension) can affect people over 40, and to encourage them to get checked in a nearby participating pharmacy*.

Find a pharmacy that offers free NHS blood pressure checks to over 40s by clicking here: qrco.de/benI0T

*If you do receive confirmation of high blood pressure, please speak to your GP or healthcare provider.

Mary Watkins, 42, struggled with her weight for years and was diagnosed with high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia while pregnant with her elder son Freddie. After unsuccessful attempts to lose weight, including fasting, she joined Slimming World and lost 7st.

She’s now maintained that weight loss for seven years, opened her own Slimming World group helping other slimmers, and been named Slimming World’s Top Target Consultant 2024.

She says: “Freddie was born seven weeks premature as he had stopped growing due to the blood flow from my placenta being weak. I was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and my weight and high blood pressure played a part in that. It hurts me to think that Freddie might not have been born early if I’d been a healthy weight.”

At more than 17st, Mary was advised to lose weight to control her blood pressure, especially if she were to become pregnant again. She says: “I knew a lot of people who were intermittent fasting at the time, so I gave that a go. I did lose a little bit of weight before I conceived my second son, Walter. The weight soon came back on though, and as the mum of two small boys, I found it difficult to make myself and my health a priority.”

Mary found herself turning down opportunities such as attending friends’ hen dos and realised she needed to make a positive change when Freddie was due to start school in 2016: “I was worried he would get picked on because of my size. A few of the mums at the baby groups I’d been to had mentioned Slimming World and friend said that she was joining our local group, so I decided to give it a go myself.

“The group was nothing like the stereotypes I’d seen on TV. I was met with warmth, care and support from the Consultant and other members – it was amazing.”

Mary, who lives in Crowborough with husband Dafydd, Freddie who is now 11 and eight-year-old Walter, soon began to enjoy Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, and introduced new healthy habits for the whole family including cooking from scratch more often and walking to school instead of taking the car.

She says: “My previous attempts at losing weight had left me hungry and irritable so to be honest I expected the same kind of thing. I couldn’t believe it when instead I was cooking food for the whole family – like spaghetti Bolognese, Moroccan tagines with couscous or chilli with homemade chips. No food is banned, there’s hundreds of foods you can eat freely and others are just controlled in different ways to protect your weight loss. And I was losing weight – I lost 7st in 10 months.”

In time, Mary became more active with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to introduce activity levels at their own pace and in a way that fits in with daily routines. She says: “I was quite active when I was younger, although this waned as I grew up. I was so worried about embarrassing myself by being red and out of puff. So instead of joining a gym, I started out by walking, I’d walk Freddie to nursery and then go on to my Slimming World group. I then progressed to running around the block and slowly stepped it up to running a 10K race, which I am so proud of. For Christmas this year my boys even asked for running shoes as they wanted to start coming out for runs with me.”

Mary’s next achievement came when she decided to train to become a Slimming World Consultant. She says: “I felt so positive – full of life and energy – a world away from the person I was before I lost weight. I wanted to bottle this feeling and give it to everyone who had ever struggled with their weight. Becoming a Consultant myself seemed the next logical step.

“I thought losing weight was the best feeling ever, but it turns out that helping others to lose weight is just as rewarding. After having the children, I wanted a job that the flexibility that I could be there for the school runs and the sports days but still have a career that I loved. This is just that!”

And after staying at her target weight for over seven years, people often ask Mary her ‘secret’ to long-term weight loss success. She says: “You have to make a change to your lifestyle. Nobody wants to ‘diet’ for the rest of their lives – yet I want to feel the way I do every day. Eating healthily and exercising is just second nature to me now – and it was my Slimming World group that helped me to get to this point.

“The individual thinking about potential pitfalls that you’re encouraged to do in group, combined with the ideas from the other members, helped me to find what worked for me. It means I don’t feel like I’m missing out and for the first time in my life I’m doing everything I ever dreamed of doing. I’m the fit and active mum that I always wanted to be and that is just the best feeling.”

You can view a video of Mary’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Mary Watkins
Age: 42
Height: 5ft 5ins/161cm
Starting weight: 17st 1½lbs/239½lbs/108kg    
Current weight: 10st 2lbs/142lbs/64kg
Weight loss: 6st 13½lbs/97½lbs/44kg    
Dress size before: 20
Dress size now: 10
Date joined Slimming World: June 2016
Time at target: Seven years

Group: Mary runs the Crowborough Slimming World group in East Sussex which is held on Thursday and Friday

Before menu
Breakfast: A bowl of sugary cereal
Lunch: Shop-bought baguette, crisps
Dinner: A pizza served with garlic bread
Snacks: Bread, cheese, salami, pate

After menu
Breakfast: Fresh fruit and fat-free natural Greek yogurt, or a grill up breakfast of bacon, eggs and beans at the weekend
Lunch: Poached or scrambled eggs on two slices of wholemeal toast or homemade quiche with a large mixed salad
Dinner: Homemade spaghetti Bolognese or fajita chicken with chilli, refried beans, salsa and taco shells 
Evening: Glass of wine

– ends –

For further information please contact Lucy Fisher in the Slimming World press office on lucy.fisher@slimmingworld.co.uk or on 01773 306852.

Weighing more than 18st at her heaviest, Jennifer’s mental health was at an all-time low and she was suffering with symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). When her GP diagnosed her with type 2 diabetes, she knew she needed to make a change.

Retail Manager Jennifer says: “I had very little confidence, and I definitely held myself back at work and missed out on going for promotions. I stayed in my comfort zone as I was so afraid of people judging me because of my size.

“I’ve always struggled with my weight, and it spiralled after the loss of my partner. I locked myself away and turned to food. I knew I was putting on too much weight so I tried a lot of different diets, but I just couldn’t get on with them.

“After my doctor diagnosed my type 2 diabetes, I was scared and wasn’t sure how it was going to affect my life. I knew losing weight was the only way to improve my health and help me to manage my type 2 diabetes.

“Some of my friends had recently joined Slimming World and were doing well, so I thought I’d tag along. I was nervous and I felt embarrassed that I had let myself get to the size I was. I didn’t need to worry though – my Consultant Irene put me at ease straight away and, in the members, I found a lovely group of people who were willing to help and support me. They shared their experiences with me every week and never judged mine.”

Since joining Slimming World in January 2021, Jennifer lost 8st 13.5lbs in just over a year and a half and has maintained it since. She has gone from a size 24 to a size 10, her PCOS symptoms are less severe and she was told her type 2 diabetes was in remission.

She says: “I couldn’t believe it when my doctor told me that my blood sugar levels were below the diabetes range – in fact, I don’t think he could believe it either! I’ve completely transformed my health by changing what I eat.”

Jennifer, who lives with her husband John, says: “My husband does a lot of cooking, and he loves the Slimming World recipes too. We still enjoy our favourite dishes such as curries and spaghetti Bolognese by making healthy swaps like using lean mince and adding a lot more vegetables into dishes. Most importantly for me, I found the eating plan flexible, and I was easily able to tailor it to the advice I'd been given from my healthcare team around managing my type 2 diabetes.

“As well as changes to my diet, I now have so much more energy. I go to exercise classes and walk every day. Losing weight has also helped me build relationships with my niece and nephew. Before I would shy away from taking them anywhere fun like the trampoline park, go-karting or theme parks. Now though, you can’t stop me – I think I’m sometimes a bigger kid than them!

“I was also a carer for my Gran who was living with dementia before she sadly passed away last year. Losing weight meant that I could better support her, which was a great motivator – if I didn’t help myself, how was I going to help her?”

Jennifer’s also embarked on a new adventure in her career – training as a Slimming World Consultant and she now supports members in her own group each week. She says: “If I can do it, I believe anyone can, which is why I decided to become a Slimming World Consultant myself. Helping my members and seeing them achieve their goals is the best role in the world!”

Jennifer shares her story as Slimming World and Diabetes UK announce a three-year partnership.

Slimming World, the UK and Ireland’s leading weight management provider, and Diabetes UK, the UK’s largest charity for people living with diabetes, are coming together to share expertise on weight loss, long-term healthy eating and diabetes. In partnership, they aim to support people living with diabetes and those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to manage their weight in a way that works for them through collaborating on resources, producing co-branded recipes and sharing expertise.

Jennifer's Before Menu

Breakfast: Nothing

Lunch: Fast food meal

Dinner: Indian takeaway with all the trimmings or a ready meal

Snacks: Three or four chocolate bars across the day, crisps and six cans of pop

Jennifer's After Menu

Breakfast: Weetabix with skimmed milk and fruit

Lunch: Scrambled egg on wholemeal toast

Dinner: Homemade spaghetti Bolognese followed by fruit and meringue

Snacks: Apples and chocolate

Jennifer runs her Slimming World  group every Thursday at Stepps Parish Church in Glasgow at 4.30pm and 6.30pm. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

He says: “I’d been a big lad ever since I was about nine years old, so it was normal for me – although I was always aware that my weight held me back. As I got older, I was slow, sluggish and had pain in my feet, legs and back all the time. I struggled to get up on time in the morning because everything was so much effort, so I was always late and even that was down to my weight.  

“I’ve always loved singing, so alongside my day job as a car body repairer and painter, I sang at parties, weddings and other events. I had zero confidence though and would constantly be fidgeting and adjusting my clothes because I felt so uncomfortable on stage. I felt like people only saw my weight rather than hearing my voice.” 

A day at the funfair with his children Riley, 11, and five-year-old Amelia in 2021 proved the turning point for Mark. He says: “I’d been off work for a while with a bad back injury – I was bed-ridden and relied on my family to look after me. I was just starting to get some mobility back when the kids asked me to take them on a ride at the fair. But the safety bar wouldn’t close, and three staff had to try to push the bar down with a crowd of people watching. In the end we all got off the ride – I felt as though the kids were embarrassed by me. I vowed to never feel like that again.” 

Just two days later, Mark walked through the doors of his local Slimming World group. He says: “I’d heard a bit about Slimming World and knew that it was about eating proper food, so it sounded like a good fit. I thought the group would be full of women and older people, so I was quite surprised to find that I wasn’t the only man there and at how welcome I was made to feel.”  

Mark, who lives with his partner Stacey Bradley, 35, enjoyed Slimming World’s healthy eating plan straightaway. He says: “From that first day in group, everyone including my Consultant Caroline was so supportive. She helped me to realise where my excess calories were coming from, and I noticed that I was making unhealthy decisions when I was hungry and in a rush. I started planning my meals and the other members in group gave me ideas for packed lunches for work, so I wasn’t grabbing something on the go. In my first week, I lost 16lbs. 

“Stacey was supportive too and she was happy for us to adapt our evening meals so that they fit within the plan – Slimming World burgers with sweet potato fries is one of our favourites. It’s real food so I never feel like I’m on a diet.” 

In time, Mark became more active with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to increase their activity levels at their own pace and in a way that fits in with their life. He says: “As the weight started to come off, I found that I had loads more energy. Instead of sleeping through my alarm in the mornings, I was waking up feeling rested and ready for the day.  

“Weight training appealed to me because I knew it would help me to strengthen my back and avoid becoming injured again. I never would have set foot in a gym when I was heavier though so it’s completely different from before. The kids love it when we do active things as a family now too, like running around at soft play together and visiting theme parks, as it’s something we didn’t do when I was bigger.” 

Now that he’s 9st lighter, Mark also has a new career. Alongside singing and DJing, he runs a café with Stacey. He says: “We have a healthier menu at the café for anyone who wants to opt for a lighter option and it’s proving popular. There’s no way I would have thought to do that before losing weight myself. 

“I also have a lot more confidence for my singing gigs. I take opportunities I’d have turned down before and enjoy performing so much more because I know nobody it is talking about my weight – just how I sound. Music is something I’m passionate about so I now feel ready to chase my dreams and sing as much as I can. The only problem is it feels so good to walk into a shop and know something will fit me that I end up buying a new suit before every show!”  

VITAL STATS:  

Name: Mark Marsden  

Age: 31 

Height: 5ft 11ins/180cm 

Starting weight: 23st 9½lbs/331½lbs/150kg   

Current weight: 14st 7½lbs/203½lbs/92kg  

Weight loss: 9st 2lbs/128lbs/58kg  

Waist size before: 48ins/121cm 

Waist size now: 32ins/81cm  

Date joined Slimming World: November 2021 

Group: Mark attends Caroline Hawson’s Brinsworth Slimming World group in Rotherham, South Yorkshire 

Before menu 

Breakfast: Large bacon, egg, sausage, hash brown, mushroom, cheese and black pudding sandwich 

Lunch: Shop-bought sandwich with a bag of crisps, two chocolate bars and a flapjack 

Dinner: A 14” ham and pineapple takeaway pizza with curly fries and cheesecake 

Snacks: Two litres of full-sugar cola, a few beers 

After menu 

Breakfast: Two Weetabix with semi-skimmed milk, strawberries, banana, black coffee 

Snack: Box of grapes or melon 

Lunch: Homemade tuna or chicken pasta bake topped with cheese, followed by a Slimming World Hi-fi bar  

Dinner: A homemade beef burger (made with 5% fat mince) served in a wholemeal roll with Slimming World sweet potato fries and a large salad 

Snacks: Vodka and diet coke, rice cakes, low-fat cheese, sugar-free jelly 

– ends – 

Leanne Hemming, 40, decided to join her local Slimming World group after attending a beach party for her aunt’s 60^th birthday party in her native Cornwall.

She says: “When I was at my heaviest I constantly felt tired – even standing up was hard work. I tried to enjoy myself at the party, but I felt so self-conscious and soon realised I was the only one sitting down – everyone else was dancing and having fun.

“My two boys were only young, and I felt as though I was missing out. I’d wanted to be a mother for so long and yet here I was too unfit to run around after them on the beach or get down on the floor to build sandcastles without struggling for breath.”

Leanne, who lives with her husband James and sons Hugo and Elliott aged nine and 11 in Canonstown, decided to join Slimming World soon after the beach party. She says: “Around that time my cousin had lost 2st at Slimming World and said she felt amazing. I thought to myself, ‘maybe I could do that too’ – it felt like the right time to put myself first.

“I’d struggled with my weight during my teenage years – although things did get better as I became an adult. My children were much longed for so being a mother soon took priority over everything else and my weight and health suffered as a result. I’d started to feel as though I was letting the boys down though and I couldn’t allow that to happen.”

Although she initially felt embarrassed about the idea of joining a Slimming World group, Leanne soon discovered that the support and guidance she received from those around her was fundamental to her success. She says: “There was a voice in the back of my head saying ‘you’ll never stick to it’ but I tried my best to silence it – and the group helped hugely with that. Everyone I met was so positive about the plan and supportive of one another’s journeys, so I soon felt at home. I’d never really attempted to lose weight before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I left my first session feeling so motivated and ready for the challenge.”

Leanne soon began to enjoy Slimming World’s healthy eating plan and built healthier habits around food. She says: “I’d expected to be living off tiny portions but that hasn’t been the case at all. I’m vegetarian so wondered if losing weight might be restrictive for me. I couldn’t have been more wrong though – there are so many vegetarian foods that can be enjoyed freely on the plan.

“I love to make a delicious cheesy pasta dish which is packed with tasty vegetables and so filling. Because the plan is based around everyday foods the whole family can eat the same meals – James has lost 4½st just by eating the same meals as me.”

As her weight loss journey progressed, Leanne became more active with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to create a personal plan to increase their activity levels at their own pace.

She says: “I was totally inactive before I lost weight – the idea of exerting myself or being out of breath was my worst nightmare. I live in a beautiful part of the country though, right near the coast, so I started making the most of it by going on lovely walks. As I became more confident, I joined the gym and now love the feeling I get afterwards.

“I gradually built this up until I was able to exercise four to five times a week – it’s just a part of my routine. I think as I started to love and respect my body more, I realised I wanted to treat it the best way that I could. For me, that means eating nutritious food and moving my body in a way that makes me feel good. Joining my Slimming World group has helped me to learn so much about myself and create a healthy lifestyle for my whole family.

“Of course, fitting into smaller clothes and feeling confident in myself is a huge bonus, though the most important change for me is that I’m now the mum I always wanted to be. Our family is fit, active and happy and that is all I ever could have asked for. My days of sitting on the sidelines are over – if there’s a party these days, I’m the first one out of my chair!”

You can view a video of Leanne’s story here.

VITAL STATS:

Name: Leanne Hemming

Age: 40

Height: 5ft 9ins/175cm

Starting weight: 18st 2lbs/115kg/254lbs

Current weight: 10st 9lbs/67kg/149lbs

Weight loss: 7st 7lbs/48kg/105lbs

Dress size before: 24

Dress size now: 8

Date joined Slimming World: August 2021

Group: Leanne attends Susie Tait’s Leedstown Slimming World group in Crowan, Cornwall

Before menu

Breakfast:  Four slices of thick white toast, spread with butter

Lunch:  Cheese and onion sandwich on thick white bread with a packet of crisps

Dinner:  A Chinese takeaway or a pizza

Snacks:  Crisps, crumpets spread with butter

After menu

Breakfast:  Granola and fat-free natural yoghurt with a banana

Lunch: Homemade pasta salad, fresh fruit, a Slimming World Hi Fi bar

Dinner: Slimming World chips, veggie sausages, baked beans, mushy peas

Evening:  Fat-free natural yoghurt, fresh fruit

The study of 2,000 adults[1], led by the UK’s largest weight-loss organisation Slimming World, reveals half of UK adults say they’ve put off losing weight due to ‘FOMO’, with missing out on favourite foods and social events fuelling this fear.

Foods people fear missing out on most are chocolate (29 per cent), takeaways (24 per cent), fish and chips (21 per cent) and fry ups (18 per cent). 

More than three quarters of people say they get pleasure from eating their favourite foods (77 per cent). So much so in fact that more women say they fear missing out on their Sunday roast (35 per cent) than going without sex (21 per cent) and 41 per cent find food nostalgic as it brings back happy memories such as family traditions or routines.

A passionate food lover, Dawn James, 33, from Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire, had been struggling for years to lose weight. Weighing 19st 7lbs, when her best friend asked her to be her maid of honour in early 2019, Dawn knew she had to make a change.

Dawn says: “I didn’t realise the effect joining Slimming World would have on my life. Before joining, I was starting to get so tired and uncomfortable at work and going upstairs to check stock would leave me breathless. By the time I’d reached the top, if I was on the phone to a customer, I’d have to put them on hold so I could recover and speak clearly again. By the end of the day, I’d be too exhausted to cook and instead I’d resort to something quick and easy – anything out of the freezer – usually chicken nuggets and chips.

“I’d tried so many times to lose weight. Each time I’d try something new. At first, I’d lose weight but soon after I’d end up putting all the weight (plus more!) back on as I felt restricted and hungry, so I’d lose interest.

“When I joined my local Slimming World group, I felt nervous and excited. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly and I felt like I fitted in straight away. Each week, their support means I leave feeling motivated, with a plan for the week ahead.

“Soon after joining, my best friend asked me to be her maid of honour and at this point I knew I truly had to get my head in the game.  I was determined to look and feel my best for both her and me.

“I was amazed that Slimming World’s plan works and nothing is off limits.  I’m a real foodie and thought I’d have to miss out to lose weight – I was wrong! I’ve lost 7st eating the food I love like pasta, potatoes and chocolate. I love the fact I can still eat carbs and chocolate.

“My husband Ben has been so supportive and as I’ve been cooking healthy dinners for us, he’s lost weight without even trying! My mother-in-law comes to group with me and we’re constantly messaging each other, with photos of meals we've made or something we’ve found in the supermarket during that week's shopping trip. We both love the Slimming World App to check supermarket items quickly and choose on the spot whether to buy it or not.

“Since losing weight, I’ve got so much more energy. I walk our dog ‘Fella’ twice a day and walk to and from work which is about 15-20 minutes each way. I’m on my feet all day constantly up and down the stairs and still have energy in the evenings.

“I’ve gone from a size 26 to a size 12 – when I say that out loud it still amazes me! Walking into any high street shop and knowing I’ll find clothes I like in my size is an incredible feeling. This means so much to me as all throughout school and into my teens I was overweight and my mum struggled to get clothes to fit me. Even after school, I’d have to buy online or from specialist ‘plus size’ clothing shops.

“Feeling prepared is one of the main changes I’ve made in my day-to-day life to keep me on track. If we go to a restaurant, I check the menu and choose what I’d like to eat in advance and I plan my weekly meals every weekend. My work colleagues are amazed at what I bring in for lunch and how much I can eat and some have even joined their local groups. We exchange recipe ideas and ask each other how we’re doing, congratulating each other on achievements and sharing how good we look and feel.”

Dawn says: “When the time came to be maid of honour, I felt beautiful. I’d lost weight and was feeling great! I love looking back at the photos and seeing how happy I look. Since then, I’ve got married myself and I was so proud to walk down the aisle in a beautiful wedding dress at least 7 sizes smaller than it would have been if I hadn’t joined Slimming World.”

Debra Maloney runs the Ross-on-Wye Slimming World group and is Dawn’s Slimming World Consultant.  Debra says: “When Dawn first joined our Slimming World group, she was truly fed up as she’d tried lots of different ways to lose weight before and nothing had worked as she’d soon felt too hungry to carry on. Like many members, Dawn didn’t believe me at first when I said she could still eat all her favourite foods and lose weight. After learning about our healthy eating plan and how to make changes in her everyday life, it was wonderful to see Dawn realise that this time, it could work – she could lose weight without ever feeling she was missing out. Supporting Dawn and helping her to lose an incredible 7st has made me, and all the members in our group, who have been behind her every step of the way, so proud.”

The survey, carried out by Censuswide, also polled members of Slimming World’s 13,000 community weight loss groups and online programme. The vast majority of members (88 per cent) say they enjoy eating food as much or more than they did before joining Slimming World and 91 per cent agree you can lose weight while enjoying your favourite food. Of the members questioned, four in five (83 per cent) say you can enjoy social situations while losing weight. 

Group: Dawn attends the Ross-on-Wye Slimming World group run by Consultant Debra Maloney. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Dawn James

Starting weight: 19st 7lbs

Weight lost: 7st

Current weight: 12st 7lbs

Height: 5ft 7in

BEFORE

Breakfast: White bread toast with lots of butter or a pastry

Lunch: Meal Deal i.e. shop bought sandwich, crisps, chocolate, can of cola  

Dinner: Anything from the freezer, for example chicken nuggets and chips

Snacks: Crisps, bars of chocolate

Drinks: Fizzy, sugary drinks, cider

AFTER

Breakfast: Bacon (with the fat cut off) and poached egg sandwich or bacon and scrambled egg 

Lunch: Slimming World slow cooker chilli  or cottage pie, batch cooked from home and warmed up at work

Dinner: Slimming World Spaghetti Bolognese with salad

Snacks: Fruit, grapes, apples, low fat crisps or low-calorie jelly

Drinks: Water, gin and slimline tonic

[1] The research was conducted by Censuswide, among samples of 2,000 nationally representative UK general consumers along with a self-selecting sample of 1,802 Slimming World members via Slimming World’s member website. The data was collected between 16.11.23 - 21.11.23 and 16.11.23 - 22.11.23 . Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct which is based on the ESOMAR principles.

Martin Turner, 36, decided to join Slimming World as he was struggling to keep up with the physical aspects of his job after his weight crept up over a period of 10 years.

Martin says: “My job can be stressful, and I’ve always worked irregular shifts which meant I ate a lot of quick and easy, but unhealthy, lunches and dinners.

“I’d tried a lot of diets, including an 800-calories a day diet, and I even cut out carbohydrates. Every attempt worked to a small degree, but they weren’t sustainable, and the weight would soon go back on when I stopped eating that way.

Martin joined his local Slimming World group in July 2022 following a referral from his GP. Although initially nervous about walking into his group for the first time, Martin says he was warmly welcomed by Consultant Leanne Saunders and the other group members.

He says: “I wasn’t looking forward to my first day at group because I had this perception that Slimming World is more for women, and I wouldn’t fit in. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, and everybody made me feel supported from the very start of my weight-loss journey.”

Since joining, Martin has lost 9st 3lbs following Slimming World’s Food Optimising healthy eating plan and is still able to enjoy his favourite meals like chicken stir fry and Chinese style fakeaways.

“I expected Leanne to tell me that I had to follow a strict diet in order to achieve my goals; I wondered how many food groups I’d have to cut out or which of my favourite meals I’d no longer be able to enjoy. So imagine the relief when I found out nothing was off limits with Slimming World!”

It’s not only his food choices that have helped Martin turn his health around; he has also increased his fitness with the help of Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme. Martin started to slowly build up his activity levels by getting off the bus a couple of stops early and walking to his destination. These additional daily steps then turned into regular jogs as his fitness improved and he took on the Couch to 5k challenge.

Losing weight and becoming more physically fit gave Martin the confidence to accompany his wife Sarah to their first ballroom dancing class, something she’d been asking him to do for a long time.

He said: “There has always been a physical side to my job but outside of work I didn’t exercise. Similarly to my food choices, I knew I wanted to change but I just didn’t know where to start. What I really like about Slimming World’s activity programme is that I could do any exercise I enjoyed and take it all at my own pace.

“Sarah and I have always watched Strictly Come Dancing, and she has been talking about taking ballroom dancing lessons for years. I always shrugged it off as something that would just never happen. I knew I wouldn’t enjoy it at the size I was, and I never thought I’d lose enough weight to be light on my feet. After losing the weight and gaining confidence, I was so pleased to tell Sarah that I finally wanted to go – and she was delighted too.

“When we sit down to watch the Strictly final this year, I’ll definitely have a greater appreciation of the dancer’s skills and feel pleased in how far I’ve come in being able to hit the dancefloor myself!”

Martin’s group is now run by Consultant Louise Heath, who also runs her own group in Daventry.

Martin’s menu before and after weight loss

Kelly Barker, 43, joined her local Slimming World group because she feared she would die on the operating table if she went ahead with the weight-loss surgery recommended by her GP.

She says: “I struggled with my weight my whole life. As a child I was placed on a special diet and had to be weighed at school. While the other children were eating fish and chips, I would have to eat a separate meal on my own – usually something bland like boiled fish and potatoes. It made me believe that weight loss was miserable, embarrassing and shameful, and it didn’t work – I gained weight every year into my adulthood.”

Kelly, who lives with her 15-year-old son, Josh, in St Helens, says going away to university made her weight increase further: “As soon as I had control over my own food choices, it was like the floodgates opened. Everything I wasn’t allowed as a child was suddenly available to me. I was in a vicious cycle of comfort eating that wreaked havoc with my weight and continued for years. I would try to lose weight sometimes but the only way I knew how was massively restricting myself with crazy fad diets which, of course, I could never stick to.”

Kelly’s weight also began to affect the way she felt at work. She says: “I’ve always loved my job as a teacher, yet I often felt like a hypocrite – especially when teaching the children about healthy eating and being active. My joints and back would be in agony after a day of teaching and although I’d plaster a smile onto my face, I just felt like a fraud.

“My big wakeup call came when my GP recommended weight-loss surgery. I researched the procedure and knew that my weight made me a huge anaesthetic risk. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I would die on the operating table.”

Thankfully, Kelly enlisted the help of her cousin Fiona, who is a Slimming World Consultant. She says: “Fiona had tried to encourage me to join her group for a long time, I had to be ready myself though. Deep down I’d been worried that it would be yet another failed weight loss attempt and that I’d be made to feel the way I’d felt my whole life when it came to food. How wrong was I? From the moment I joined the group I was surrounded by warmth, kindness and compassion.

“I can’t lie, standing on the scales for the first time was daunting – not least because I was terrified I’d be too heavy for them to weigh me (they could, thankfully). Although that number was frightening – it also felt like the start of something. Fiona told me that she would never give up on me and she has remained true to that promise. She and my group have been there every step of the way. They helped me discover in myself the belief that I could do it and I now look at that moment as the biggest turning point in my life.”

Kelly soon began to enjoy Slimming World’s eating plan and learned to build healthier habits around food. She says: “Cooking from scratch every night and planning my meals was a big change for me. I started by picking simple recipes with a few ingredients and quickly discovered that I could Food Optimise all my old favourites like curries, pizzas and Chinese dishes.

“I’d been in a battle with food for most of my life so being shown that I could eat generously, cook the most amazing meals and never go hungry was groundbreaking for me. It wasn’t just about changing what I put on my plate, there was a big psychological shift too – I had a whole new relationship with food. I eat much better now than I ever have. The children at school often ask, ‘What’s in the lunch bag today, Mrs B?’ and I feel proud to show them the plentiful, colourful, fresh and healthy food I am enjoying.

“Obviously losing 18st has been fantastic for my health and my confidence but by far the best thing to happen is the relationship I now have with my son. I no longer feel like I embarrass him, and he tells me he is proud of what I have achieved. He is a county and regional level swimmer so being more in tune with my own activity levels and nutrition has brought us so much closer together.”

Kelly began to get active herself with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to create a personal plan to increase their activity levels at their own pace. She says: “My activity levels before I lost weight were basically zero. As my journey progressed, I found I had so much more energy – so when Josh suggests fell walking, rock climbing or kayaking now, I’m excited to get involved rather than worrying I’ll be over the weight limits.

“We’ve recently been on holiday to the Lake District. As I sat on top of the fell after a tough climb, I looked out to the view of the lake below and tears came to my eyes. I was thinking about how much I had been missing out on, all these beautiful views and experiences. There’s no doubt in my mind that I’ve saved my life by losing weight – and these days it’s a life worth living.”

VITAL STATS:

Name: Kelly Barker

Age: 43

Height: 5ft 3ins/160cm

Starting weight: 28st 7lbs/180kg/399lbs

Current weight: 10st 7lbs/66kg/147lbs

Weight loss: 18st/114kg/252lbs

Dress size before: 32

Dress size now: 10

Date joined Slimming World: May 2018

Group: Kelly attends Fiona Foulder’s Marshside Slimming World group in Southport, Merseyside

Before menu

Breakfast: Something on-the-go like a pastry from the petrol station on the way to work

Lunch: Sandwiches, crisps and cakes from a bakery

Dinner: A takeaway pizza  

Snacks: Crisps, chocolate, biscuits, cake, pies

After menu

Breakfast: Overnight oats made with fat-free natural yogurt and plenty of fruit

Lunch: Homemade soup, pasta salads or a crustless quiche

Dinner: A curry made from scratch with rice or a homemade Slimming World kebab with chips made in the air fryer

Evening: A Slimming World Hi-Fi bar (available in groups, online and in selected Iceland stores), fruit, yogurt or a small chocolate bar

– ends –

In March 2021, Joy attended her first Slimming World group thanks to the recommendation from Leanne Hennessey, a social prescribing link worker for Nottinghamshire. Leanne, who has supported Joy throughout her weight loss journey, said: “When I met Joy over the phone in lockdown, she had already tried all of the local resources available, and nothing was clicking. I did some research and found out about Slimming World’s resources to help people with learning difficulties, so I connected her with Vanessa, a local Slimming World Consultant, and we took the first steps towards the start of her incredible journey.”

Slimming World Consultant Vanessa Chatwin welcomed Joy and helped her to feel at ease from the start. Due to Joy’s difficulties with reading and writing, she used an Easy Read guide to Slimming World’s flexible healthy eating plan Food Optimising. The Easy Read guide was developed specifically for members who have learning difficulties, in a style that uses larger text, shorter sentences, plenty of pictures and a simple layout.

With the support of Vanessa, her family and her new friends from group, Joy embraced Food Optimising and as a result, she started seeing results as her weight began to drop. Her daily lockdown takeaways were soon forgotten as she learnt new recipes, and now Joy’s go to meal is braised steak with mashed potatoes, made with lean meat and without butter and cream.

Joy also started to gradually increase her activity levels as part of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Body Magic. By increasing her daily movement little by little, at her own pace, Joy built up her stamina to take on more challenging activities like using an exercise bike and going for longer walks.

Before joining Slimming World, Joy could only walk a few short steps before she was out of breath and needed an inhaler. She would rely on her mobility scooter to get around. Now, Joy enjoys going to the gym, cycles to the places she needs to be and walks without needing her inhaler.

She continues: “Thanks to the help of Vanessa, Leanne, my friends from group and my family, I can now easily do things that were a struggle when I was at my heaviest. I am much more confident and happier in myself and am very determined to reach my target weight and continue living a healthier life.”

Vanessa, who has been a Slimming World Consultant since 2021, runs three groups in Long Eaton and West Bridgford. She said: “It’s amazing to be part of Joy’s journey and help her understand and embrace Slimming World’s plan. 

Sue’s experience backs up the findings of a survey[i] which shows that women going through the menopause can successfully lose weight by making healthy lifestyle changes following Slimming World’s programme.  Over three quarters (79%) of the members questioned who were going through the perimenopause or had experienced the menopause said they had successfully lost weight with Slimming World.  Members currently experiencing the perimenopause who responded to the survey reported the top three most common symptoms as feeling tired or lacking in energy (51%), difficulty concentrating (38%), and difficulty sleeping (37%).

Sue says: “Seven years ago, in October 2016 I made a decision that would change the rest of my life.  Aged 49 and weighing over 20st, I was starting to go through the menopause and experiencing between 15 and 20 hot flushes a day. They would come on so quickly, starting in my chest and rising upwards until I felt as if sweat was dripping off my head. I don’t think my weight helped as I would overheat so quickly, and I would get night sweats. I started to experience mood swings and I always felt sluggish too – every afternoon I’d feel like I needed a sugar fix. I was on medication for my blood pressure and as well as being checked out for heart issues, I was advised that I was at a high risk of type 2 diabetes.”

Although Sue started to experience the perimenopause at 49 and the average age that women reach the menopause in the UK is 51, this can vary and for some women it can be much earlier. For women experiencing symptoms, it can have a big impact on relationships, work and it can be especially challenging if you’re trying to lose weight. The findings of the survey revealed 85% of women said that in their experience, weight loss is more challenging during the perimenopause and after the menopause.

"I’d known for a long time I needed to do something – when I went to see my doctor she indicated if I lost weight that a lot of the menopause symptoms I was experiencing might lessen.  She also said she couldn’t prescribe me hormone replacement therapy (HRT) tablets until I lost some weight. I was mortified at being told this so directly, on reflection though it was the kick start that I needed.”

Sue says: “Although I’d tried losing weight before, this time I was determined to make a change. I found a Slimming World group locally that worked for me, and I lost 9lbs in the first week. That was a lightbulb moment for me,” says Sue who works as a placement co-ordinator at the business school of Bournemouth University.

“A year later, I’d lost 4st 8lbs and the hot flushes became less frequent.  I feel so proud of what I’ve achieved. If I think back to what I ate before joining Slimming World, I know I made a lot of unhealthy choices and would regularly eat junk food.  Now, I cook from scratch – I find with Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, I can eat all the foods I love and I’m never hungry.”

Sue says: “Before joining Slimming World, I was barely active at all.  I heard about Slimming World’s physical activity support programme and decided to try paddleboarding. I loved it!  Getting out on the water locally has become an important part of my weekly routine and I’ve met a whole new group of friends. My three Scottish terriers are loving the new, more active me too.  Before I lost weight, I’d take them on the quickest and shortest walk possible. Now I love taking them on long walks along the beach – in all weathers!”

Sue says: “I wasted so much time while I was overweight and after losing both my parents in recent years, I’m aware how short and precious life is. I still have the occasional hot flush however since losing weight my menopause symptoms have reduced so much.  I’ve so much more energy, I’m loving life and my main ambition now is to enjoy life and embrace the new me!”

Sadie Kerslake-Smith runs the Moordown Slimming World group in Bournemouth and is Sue’s Consultant. She says: “Sue is such an inspiration in group to me and the other members – even though she’s achieved her dream weight, she still comes along to group every week to share her hints and tips. Knowing that Sue’s lost 9st while going through the menopause is so inspiring and I know it reassures other members who are approaching this stage in their lives. Sue’s smile says it all, she radiates happiness and I feel blessed to have had a small part in making her shine that little bit brighter.”

For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

[i] Data collated from an online poll from 14^th to 26^th September 2023 of 2,472 Slimming World group and online members who were either experiencing the perimenopause, or who had already gone through the menopause

Photo Credit (pics in Bournemouth October 2023): Slimming World/Richard Crease

Fifty-nine-year-old Alice Ingman gained weight steadily for years, suffering with painful acid reflux and reaching more than 18st. She finally decided to do something about her weight after an embarrassing experience in a clothes fitting room.

Alice, who lives in Wisbech with her husband Kevin, 67, and daughter Lauren, 23, knew she didn’t want to opt for drastic weight loss methods such as shakes or soups, which she’d tried with limited success before.

Instead, Alice joined Slimming World and received support to adopt healthy habits which enabled her to lose weight and keep it off. She says: “All of the fad diets work in the short term, but overly restricting myself wasn’t for me as I always ended up regaining the weight. This time I wanted to make a change for good. That’s what appealed about Slimming World, I’d heard that you could still eat real food and the idea of a group setting really appealed to me.”

New research published in Clinical Nutrition Open Science supports Alice’s view, with the study revealing that three in four respondents who received support in building healthy habits at a Slimming World group were lighter up to three years after joining, even if they’d stopped attending.[1]

Eight in 10 (83%) of those who responded to the survey and were still attending each week up to three years after first joining reported that their health had improved, with 93% attributing the improvement to their weight management and the lifestyle changes they’d made. While 50% of those no longer attending also reported improvements to their health up to 36 months later.

Alice, who is originally from Paisley, says: “My weight was really taking a toll on my health. I had terrible acid reflux, my legs would rub together and cause painful sores, and I’d be completely out of breath after the most minimal physical activity. I knew that Kevin and Lauren were worried about me too because I’d get tired so easily.

“I’d been relatively slim up until my mid-20s – the weight went on so gradually that I didn’t really notice at first. One afternoon I was shopping for new work clothes, convinced I was still a size 16. When I found myself in the changing room surrounded by size 20 skirts that didn’t fit, I knew I had to do something.”

[1] [1] Published in Clinical Nutrition Open Science

The retired personal assistant says despite being someone who enjoys meeting new people, she was nervous going along to her first Slimming World group: “Even though the idea of a group really appealed to me, I still had those first-night jitters! Everyone was really friendly though and I soon made some great friends. I always tell everyone that my ‘secret’ to long-term weight loss is having support around you. Even after years at target I’m still learning about myself as a slimmer and picking up new recipes and ideas.”

Alice soon got to grips with Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan and learned to build healthier habits around food, including cooking from scratch more and eating more fruit and vegetables.

Slimming World’s study found that 94% of current members and 81% of past members who responded were still cooking more meals from scratch using fresh ingredients up to three years on. While nearly all the current members (98%) and three quarters (74%) of those no longer attending said they were eating more fruit and vegetables.

She says: “I’ve always enjoyed food but had fallen out of love with cooking. Most of my meals had a plastic lid and were either from the takeaway or for the microwave. Slimming World showed me that I could still enjoy the flavours of food while losing weight. I absolutely love a curry – the spicier the better – so experimenting with my own recipes really kept me on track. It was a totally new way of looking at weight loss and I think that’s why it has worked so well for me.”

Over the course of six years Alice lost an incredible 8st 8lbs – a weight loss she has maintained since 2018 when she achieved her target weight. She says: “I lost the weight steadily which I think really helped. I also began to exercise for the first time ever, which I am sure has contributed to how easy I have found maintaining my weight.”

Alice began to get active with the help of Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to create a personal plan to increase their activity levels at their own pace.

She says: “I’ve never been sporty, yet losing weight gave me so much more energy, so for the first time ever I felt motivated to move my body. Walking felt much easier after losing weight, so for me the next step was to try running.  I joined a local running club and loved how it made me feel – powerful, fit and strong! Since then, I’ve completed ten half marathons and three marathons – a total world away from the person who would be out of puff after a trip around the shops.

“And clothes shopping has become one of my favourite hobbies! Feeling great in my clothes is amazing yet for me my health is the biggest gift of all. My family no longer worry about me, and you just can’t put a price on that feeling. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my Slimming World group and Kevin and Lauren – they’ve been my cheerleaders the whole way. I’m fitter, happier and healthier – and this time it’s for life.”

Dr Amanda Avery, Slimming World’s Health and Research Consultant Dietitian, says: “At a time when people can feel bombarded with so many different ways to lose weight, it can be confusing to know which approach will truly work for you. Our research and Alice’s story show anyone who is trying to lose weight and keep it off, how important it is to make healthy lifestyle changes. As no two slimmers are the same, it’s the expertise and support members receive at their local Slimming World group which helps them to understand what those changes mean for them, just as Alice has done beautifully.”

VITAL STATS:

Name: Alice Ingman

Age: 59

Height: 5ft 5ins/165cm

Starting weight: 18st 1lb/114kg/253lbs

Current weight: 9st 7lbs/60kg/133lbs

Weight loss: 8st 8lbs/54kg/120lbs

Dress size before: 22

Dress size now: 8

Date joined Slimming World: May 2012

Achieved target weight: February 2018

Time at target weight: 5 years

Group: Alice attends Tina Rust’s Wisbech Slimming World group in Cambridgeshire

Before menu

Breakfast: Nothing

Lunch: A supermarket meal deal such as a sandwich, crisps and a drink followed by chocolate or cake

Dinner: An Indian takeaway or a spaghetti carbonara ready meal made in the microwave

Snacks: Crisps, chocolate, biscuits, cake

After menu

Breakfast: Homemade overnight oats, made with fruit and yogurt

Lunch: Leftovers from a meal made the night before or homemade salad-filled wholemeal roll

Dinner: A spicy fakeaway curry made from scratch, served with rice  

Evening: A Slimming World Hi-Fi bar (available in groups, online and in selected Iceland stores) or a flavoured fat-free yogurt

At the 2021 festival, held at Bramham Park, Aaron Walker knew he needed to do something about his weight.

The former University of Hull student was hoping to enjoy the festival with his friends and found that his size held him back. He says: “I was really looking forward to being with my mates, listening to some good music and making some memories. Turns out I did make a core memory that day – it just wasn’t the one I was expecting.”

Aaron, now 27, who is Slimming World’s new Man of the Year, continues: “Even before I arrived my weight was a problem. The button had popped off my shorts because they were so tight and I tried to find some more the day before, but clothes shopping isn’t exactly simple when you have a 48” waist. So, I sewed the button back on and hoped for the best.

“When I arrived, it soon dawned on me that being on my feet would be hard going for me at almost 27st. Just the walk from the entrance to the main stage had me gasping for breath – I was exhausted. I felt self-conscious all day and even missed one of my favourite bands, Two Door Cinema Club, because I was too tired to walk across the field to the stage they were playing on.”

At that moment Aaron decided he had to make some positive changes to his lifestyle and lose weight. He says: “I thought to myself – I’m 25 years old, I should be having the time of my life at a music festival with my mates and I’m not. That was my turning point. I joined a Slimming World group not long after. Now here I am – two years later, 14st lighter and loving Leeds Festival this time!”

Aaron was living in Hull at the time so joined a Slimming World group in the city. There he was introduced to Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan, and learned to build healthier habits around food and becoming more active.

Aaron, who works in finance now, says: “I’d always had a problem with my weight, even as a child. When I was younger my parents had to put a padlock on our treats cupboard because otherwise I would eat the lot. When I moved away to uni my weight problems became even worse. Being independent meant I could eat whatever I wanted – and a boozy night out often ended in a takeaway – with another one the next day to help clear my hangover.

“I presented myself as the big, funny one even though inside I was really self-conscious. It took a lot of courage for me to join a Slimming World group, but my mum and sister were already members at a group back home in Doncaster, so I knew a little about what to expect and I knew it worked. I was met with a warm welcome and soon felt like part of a big family. I knew I needed to lose weight and my Slimming World group felt the best possible place to make that happen. When I moved back home for a new job, I transferred to the Doncaster group and was confident I’d get a big welcome and great support there too.”

Aaron soon got to grips with Slimming World’s eating plan, which helped him to swap his fast-food and takeaways for home-cooked meals packed full of filling foods like lean protein and veg. He says: “I’d always been a big eater, so I knew that an overly restrictive plan which left me feeling hungry wouldn’t work for me. I loved learning to cook – it almost became like therapy for me. I soon learned how to recreate my favourite takeaway dishes like Chinese chicken. The support I got at the group helped me to see that food isn’t the enemy.”

After a few months of healthy eating, Aaron felt ready to get active at his own pace with Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, which helps members to create a personal plan to increase their activity levels steadily. He says: “My family had always been into walking, and it was getting to the point where they wouldn’t invite me to go with them because I struggled with my fitness so much. I was totally inactive before, even walking to the top of the stairs would leave me out of breath. I started off taking small walks around the block – it was hard at first, but it gradually became easier and more of a hobby.

“In time my walking progressed to running and I’ve since completed the Leeds Half Marathon, which was an amazing achievement. I also started hiking and love getting out into the countryside – in the past year I’ve climbed Snowdon, completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and climbed Ben Nevis. My big dream now is to complete the London Marathon one day.

“It feels like my life is just beginning – and I can’t wait to see what’s next for me. Heading back to Leeds Fest is a big tick off the list though!”

VITAL STATS:

Name: Aaron Walker

Age: 27

Height: 5ft 10ins/178cm

Starting weight: 26st 12.5lbs/376.5lbs/170kg

Current weight: 12st 10.5lbs/178.5lbs/81kg

Weight loss: 14st 2lbs/198lbs/89kg

Waist size before: 48ins/121cm

Waist size now: 32ins/81cm

Date joined Slimming World: October 2021

Group: Aaron originally lost weight at Pauline Collins’ Hull Slimming World group, before moving to Dawn-Lisa Oxborough’s Doncaster group earlier this year.

Before menu

Breakfast: Nothing

Mid-morning: Chocolate, sweets, biscuits, crisps

Lunch: A supermarket meal deal such as a sandwich, crisps and a drink followed by chocolate or cake

Dinner: Takeaway pizza or chicken and chips

Snacks: Crisps, chocolate, biscuits, cake

After menu

Breakfast: Porridge with lots of fresh fruit and a black coffee

Lunch: Leftovers from a meal made the night before or homemade soup or salads

Dinner: A Chinese fakeaway such as homemade Chinese chicken with egg-fried rice

Evening: A Slimming World Hi-Fi bar (available in groups, online and in selected Iceland stores) or a flavoured fat-free yogurt

This year she discovered the Solihull Race for Life event was on the eleventh anniversary of his death on 11^th June, so she knew she had to sign up.

Laura is a Slimming World Consultant and runs a group in Elmdon every Saturday. Her members joined her to take part in a recent Race for Life event and together they raised an amazing £2,500.

Laura says: “It was a great day despite the heat, and I have been blown away by my members’ efforts. I’m so proud of them and everything they’ve achieved in losing weight and becoming more active.

“I hope my uncle was looking down on me and beaming with pride as I crossed the finish line; I know that he would be so pleased with the work that I do to help others achieve their dreams.”

Laura became a Slimming World Consultant after losing 2st herself and has remained at her target weight for the past two and a half years.

Before losing weight, Laura noticed that her clothes were getting tighter, and she was starting to need the next size up. She decided to join her local Slimming World group and took her two sisters along with her for support. Laura says: “Walking through those doors was a lot less daunting knowing that my sisters were by my side. I knew I wanted to make a change to my unhealthy habits and had heard great success stories from people who joined Slimming World."

“My Slimming World group helped me to take a proper look at my eating habits. It was obvious I wasn’t eating enough fruit and vegetables, and I was keen to change that.”

Laura found making small changes, such as not cooking with oil and reaching for fruit or high-fibre cereal bars as a snack if she was hungry between meals, made a big difference and were easy to incorporate into her life. Laura hasn’t had to give up foods she loves either – she still enjoys cooking her favourite curries but now opts for a low-calorie cooking spray instead of oil.

As well as changing her eating habits, Laura embraced Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Body Magic, and enjoyed setting herself goals to increase her fitness levels. So when Laura heard that Slimming World was sponsoring Cancer Research UK’s (CRUK) Race for Life, that was another goal she decided to set herself and her members.  

Laura says: “I’ve dropped two dress sizes but joining Slimming World hasn’t just changed my physical appearance, my confidence has grown so much too. I’ve gained the confidence to stand in front of a camera, rather than shying behind it, I feel great in my clothes, and I love my role as a Consultant.”

“I had my first child when I was 21 and after my daughter was born, I realised I had gained 4st since leaving school. I knew I wanted to get fit and active again but didn’t know how.”

At an all-time low, Tina knew something needed to change. She says: “I had very low confidence. I hid away, hated dressing up and socialising, and felt depressed most of the time. I was due to attend a wedding and really struggled to find a dress that I wanted to wear in my size – I was around a size 18. It was at this point I vowed to lose weight. Joining Slimming World is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and it’s transformed my life.”

Tina followed Slimming World’s Food Optimising healthy eating plan and loved that the flexible plan gave her the knowledge and skills she’d so desperately wanted to make changes to the way she ate and improve her understanding of her relationship with food. She says: “I’ve taken back control – I used to live on high sugar cereals, takeaways, and chocolate, nowadays I love to cook from scratch and enjoy family-favourite dinners such as homemade chilli con carne, curries and pasta dishes.”

As Tina lost weight and grew in confidence, she decided to explore Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme, which helps members to embrace active habits. The programme recognises a wide range of activities, to suit all ability levels and budgets, and supports members to increase activity from their own individual starting point and at their own pace.

Tina says: “I was a little anxious at first, but I started the Couch to 5k app after hearing about Body Magic. I slowly built up running until it became more than just a habit. I loved it and soon found I was hitting the pavements six days a week!

“Since then, I’ve completed two sprint triathlons, an Olympic triathlon and I ran the London Marathon as part of the Slimming World team in April 2023 which was a dream come true. I realised the key is finding an activity you enjoy – then it doesn’t feel like a chore. I can’t wait to get my trainers on these days. It’s been brilliant for my mental health too.”

It’s been more than 10 years since Tina joined her first Slimming World group and she admits she was surprised by the support, motivation and kindness she found there. She says: “My group was invaluable to me. Without the care and support from my Consultant and fellow members, I honestly don’t believe I would have been able to lose weight. Because of this, I decided to become a Slimming World Consultant myself – I wanted to give back and help others, just like I had been helped. It’s a brilliant role – so flexible and incredibly rewarding.

“When I found out Slimming World was sponsoring Cancer Research UK’s (CRUK) Race for Life 2023, I jumped at the opportunity to sign up as I lost both of my grandfathers to cancer, so it was a great chance for me to support a wonderful cause.

“I didn’t do the race alone though as members from my group also took part. It’s been amazing to see them training for the race and to share something I love with them, as well as support them on their own journey to becoming more active. When I cross the finish line, I will be reflecting on my own weight loss journey and how far I have come – from being pretty much physically inactive, to inspiring others to move more.”

While Jo Beveridge and John Durkin, who have been together for 30 years, had both struggled with their weight for decades, they found that the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 changed their eating habits – often relying on takeaways and ready meals.  

Jo, 50, who has lost 6st 6lbs, says: “If I’m honest with myself, I’d been unhappy with my weight ever since our first son Alex was born. When Liam arrived a few years later, it became even more difficult to find time to eat healthily. I’d try to lose weight before a big event or holiday, but it would be a quick fix and I always ended up back where I started as soon as I started eating ‘normally’ again.

“Lockdown meant that we sought comfort in food when we were away from our family and friends – sometimes having a takeaway or indulgent meal was all we had to look forward to. It meant we developed some quite unhealthy habits which were then hard to shake even when we came out of lockdown.

“I knew John was feeling the same way and wondered if we might have more success if we tried losing weight together. Our daughter-in-law Jodie had joined Slimming World ahead of her wedding in 2019 and she looked absolutely amazing on the day. She raved about all of the delicious food she could eat and how supportive the group was, so we decided to give it a try for ourselves.”

Fifty-two-year-old warehouse manager John, who has halved his weight by losing 10st 11lbs, adds: “We’d always been quite active – I enjoyed cycling and Jo had been a member of the gym for years. We still struggled with our weight though, so we knew we needed some extra help, and it wasn’t just about moving more.

“At the time we’d just welcomed our first grandchild, Abel, and knew we wanted to be fit and healthy enough to be fun and involved grandparents. He really gave us that extra push to lose weight for good. He’s since been joined by our granddaughter Etta – running around with them is the best exercise!”

At their local Slimming World group Jo and John discovered Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan, swapping their diet of convenience food and takeaways for home-made meals.

Jo, who works in accounts, says: “Pre-lockdown our weekends would often involve a trip to the pub with a takeaway after, so we were a bit worried that we wouldn’t be able to enjoy that aspect of our lives anymore, however with a few simple swaps we realised we didn’t have to miss out. Instead of beer and wine we’d have spirits with a low-calorie mixer and alternate alcohol with soft drinks. We also love experimenting with Slimming World curries which we cook from scratch. The onion bhaji recipe is amazing too – they’re a firm favourite in our house!”

John adds: “The eating plan is no nonsense, common-sense eating – a world away from the crash diets we’ve done in the past. It’s changed the way we think about food. We plan our meals now and eat three balanced meals a day which helps us to stay on track. We often batch cook too, so if we don’t fancy cooking or don’t have time, there’s usually something in the freezer.

“The group support was great too. I was a bit nervous at the thought of joining and wasn’t really sure what to expect, but everyone there was really friendly and welcoming, especially our Consultant Sophie. I worried I might be the only man there or that I’d be judged for being the biggest in the room. It wasn’t like that at all though. We left our very first group feeling like we could really do it this time – so many of the other members had told us about how much they’d lost and how easy it was, we felt sure they couldn’t all be wrong!

“Slimming World has been the missing piece of the puzzle. We learned so much about the best way to fuel our bodies and the Image Therapy sessions opened our eyes to the pitfalls we’d fallen into in the past – like reaching for quick fixes when we were busy and tired after work or snacking in front of the TV when we weren’t really hungry. After a few weeks we really started to understand who we were as slimmers. Once we’d nailed that, everything fell into place.”

As they were already quite active, Jo and John soon felt ready to embrace Slimming World’s physical activity support programme, Body Magic. Jo says: “Although activity was something we were familiar with, it used to take it out of us when we were heavier, and we definitely felt the aches and pains afterwards. Pairing healthy eating with our exercise made such a difference to our fitness. Our Parkrun times just got better and better – John’s personal best is 24 minutes and mine is 28 minutes, which I’m over the moon with!”

John adds: “I properly caught the running bug once the weight started coming off! It felt so much easier, and my recovery time was much faster. I soon progressed from 5K to 10K, then a half marathon, until this April when I ran my first marathon. I still can’t quite believe that I’ve halved my bodyweight and run a marathon! I think the best thing about the activity support programme is that it’s broken down into small, achievable goals so it never feels overwhelming. There really is something for everyone whether you want to swim, cycle or just move more regularly, and we have people at all levels in our Slimming World group.

“I’m really proud to have run a marathon, but I’m even more proud of the type of grandparents we have become. We’ve got tonnes of energy to keep up with Abel and Etta and that’s exactly what we set out to achieve.”

Now that they’re 17st lighter, Jo and John have a new dream… “We’ve been together for 30 years and wanted to get married before lockdown,” says Jo. “We put the plans on hold though because we wanted to have a big party. So maybe there will be wedding bells soon!”

VITAL STATS:

Name: Jo Beveridge

Age: 50

Height: 5ft 6.5ins/169cm

Starting weight: 17st 6lbs/244lbs/110kg

Current weight: 11st/154lbs/70kg

Weight loss: 6st 6lbs/90lbs/40kg

Dress size before: 20

Dress size now: 10

Date joined Slimming World: September 2021

Name: John Durkin

Age: 52

Height: 5ft 6.5ins/169cm

Starting weight: 21st 8lbs/302lbs/136kg

Current weight: 10st 11lbs/151lbs/68kg

Weight loss: 10st 11lbs/151lbs/68kg

Waist size before: 50ins/127cm

Waist size now: 30ins/76cm

Date joined Slimming World: September 2021

Group: Jo and John attend the Burnley (Lowerhouse) Slimming World group in Lancashire run by Consultant Sophie Cowgill.

Before menu

Breakfast: Toast/fast food breakfast or no breakfast at all

Lunch: A supermarket meal deal such as a sandwich, crisps and a drink

Dinner: A jar of ready-made sauce with chicken or crusty bread sandwiches with crisps and a chocolate bar

Snacks: Crisps, chocolate, biscuits or a cake

After menu

Breakfast: Cereal and skimmed milk or a cereal bar

Mid-morning: Fresh fruit

Lunch: Tuna and rice salad or jacket potato and baked beans

Dinner: A meal from one of Slimming World’s recipe books e.g. chicken tikka masala with home-made onion bhajis

Evening: A Slimming World Hi-Fi bar or a flavoured fat-free yogurt. 

Nicola, 50, who weighed 22st at her heaviest, says: “When I was 41, my son Ben, who was 14 at the time, returned from school to find me lying on the bed unconscious. An ambulance was called and it turned out I'd had a stroke. I was in hospital for a week, I couldn't speak and I had no sensation down my right-hand side. Results of tests showed that I had a hole in my heart and needed surgery. Although everything went okay with the operation, I knew that being overweight had been a contributing factor to the stroke.

“I was horrified that my son – and my whole family, in fact – had to go through such an ordeal though. Having lost my own mum when she was just 43, I couldn't bear the thought of leaving my children without theirs. 

“I’d struggled with my weight since childhood and, being a yo-yo dieter as an adult, I’d tried many times on my own to lose weight. It would work for a bit, then I’d put the weight back on as I’d feel restricted and unable to eat the foods I love. I knew what I needed was a long-term solution not a quick fix.

“The answer didn’t come straight away but when a Slimming World leaflet came through my door just after Christmas, I decided to join my local group that January. 

“Even though I desperately wanted to make a change, I was scared. So much so that I actually didn’t go that first week, it took another seven days for me to pluck up enough courage. I went the following week, and I’m so glad I did! As soon as I walked in, my fears went away, and I was put at ease as everyone was so welcoming.

“Although I was one of the biggest people there, 12 other people joined the same week and that united us immediately. As I heard my  Consultant, Lori, talk about the plan and the support that surrounded it, I remember thinking, ‘this could actually work’! I felt like finally there was something that could fit in with my lifestyle – and it has. In a year, I lost 10st and the biggest achievement for me is I’ve kept the weight off ever since .

“What I find incredible about the Slimming World plan is the fact that you can eat the foods you love, never go hungry and still lose weight. It’s so flexible. I cook from scratch now, I’ve cut out butter and I use low calorie cooking spray instead of oil. I never feel like I’m missing out though, I’ve just adapted the way I shop and cook. We’re quite a sociable family so we’ll often visit the local pub or enjoy meals out with friends and none of that has had to stop. I can still socialise and lose weight! Instead of drinking lager and lime or cider, I’ve swapped to gin and when we eat at a restaurant, I swap out the chips for a jacket potato and salad with my steak. 

“Since losing weight, I’ve been able to walk further and found simple things like going up the stairs or getting up off the settee much easier. Sheffield is a very hilly city and before joining Slimming World, I would often struggle and end up out of breath when walking the dogs.

Slimming World has a physical activity support programme called Body Magic which inspired and helped me start to get more active. I did it gradually, at my own pace and I’ve taken up cycling. Now my daily bike ride can see me cycling anything between 10 and 20 miles! 

“Losing weight has meant I can now enjoy more time with my husband Richard as we cycle together, as well as walking more with my children Ben, 23, and Molly, 21. I love getting out in the fresh air and it’s incredible the sense of achievement I get once I’ve been out. 

“Just a year after joining Slimming World and 10st lighter, I’d completely turned my life around. Five years later I’m still so proud of what I’ve achieved. I’ve gone from a size 24 to a size 12 and I have so much more energy.  Being healthier has given me a new zest for life and I’m over the moon that I can say yes to the things I love and still lose weight.” 

Nicola attends the Stanwood Slimming World group run by Consultant Lori Kitchin. For more information or to find your nearest group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

Nicola Bower

Starting weight: 22st 5lbs

Weight lost: 10st

Height: 5ft 8in

BEFORE

Breakfast: Either nothing or white toast with butter

Lunch: Sandwiches and crisps 

Dinner: Shop bought chicken Kiev with cheese or steak pie and mash made with butter or spaghetti Bolognese, made from a jar of sauce, garlic bread

Snacks: Crisps, biscuits

Drinks: Sugary fizzy drinks

AFTER

Breakfast: Fresh fruit with low-fat yoghurt or porridge

Lunch: Homemade soup or ham or crabstick salad with Slimming World chips

Dinner: Slimming World spaghetti Bolognese with salad

Snacks: Fruit, grapes, apples, low calorie yoghurt, low fat crisps or low-calorie jelly

Drinks: Water