Read just some of the stories about the success of the weight management programme in partnership with Slimming World.
Supporting mental health
In her own words, here is how one of our participants on the programme really turned her life around and improved both her physical and mental health.
“My mental health was at an all-time low and I was overweight and unhealthy and advised by doctors it would be better if I lost weight. I had been diagnosed with PTSD and had a lot going on in my personal life. I heard about the Slimming World referral programme through my doctors, without their referral I wouldn’t have joined. I felt nervous and overwhelmed at my first meeting, walking in alone, but I soon realised the group is so friendly and I really look forward to going now. I like that we have lots in common and I wish I’d done it years earlier – it’s the best thing I did.
“I was suffering with symptoms of PTSD and used food and drink as a way to self-medicate. Combined with therapy, stepping into Slimming World has helped me work out my triggers and look at my relationship with food. I realised that in the past I was existing, not thriving and living the life I wanted.
“I am now 1.5 stone lighter and halfway to my target weight. I’ve completely changed my relationship with food. I eat three meals a day and choose healthy options. I sleep better and my mental health is so much better. I feel stronger and more resilient. I started with the mindset that change won’t happen overnight, bad habits I’ve had all my life will take a little time to change, but I know what they are now and what triggers them. This has improved to the point that I no longer use alcohol or eat to feel good. My mood is better knowing this isn’t the way forward. My mental health is my number one priority and I’m being kind to myself when I have a bad day by having a little me time – candles, a bath, a magazine, maybe a massage or getting my nails done – anything nice.
“Since losing weight, I’m back working. I’m walking and getting out more fresh air. I don’t hide away now. I’m happier, healthier and I’m starting to live my best life.
“The group is the best thing – like minded people who understand how hard it is, but who want to make changes for a better life, a better you. They encourage you and they are all so lovely. I can happily walk in alone and I see friends now, I know they are there to support me as much as I support them.
“I’d just like to encourage anyone out there who wants to change, who wants to lose weight, who wants to feel better about themselves, who knows they have bad habits and who wants to lose weight to join a Slimming World group, to not be afraid. Honestly, you will not regret it.
“With the cost of living, this free programme meant I was able to join Slimming World when I might not have been able to otherwise. I couldn’t do it alone. I needed help and Wyre Council and Slimming World gave me that help and put me on the right path. Thank you.”
Terence's success story
Terence O'Neill from Poulton is 75 and has lost two stone since joining Slimming World. 
“I was initially sceptical about joining Slimming World as I have had weight problems for many years and never been able to lose any significant weight and keep it off. However as my local GP practice was promoting the free 12 week membership I decided it was a no brainer and took up the offer. I have health problems that losing weight would help with (diabetes, atrial fibulation and arthritis). Since completing the programme I have decided to continue and have renewed my membership as I feel that the system works for me.
"I usually stay for the group session which I feel is very useful, as it helps to hear how other people cope with the stresses of trying to lose weight. I am also able to pick up tips etc from the comments of the other members. I am happy with my progress so far and aim to continue for as long as it takes to reach my goal weight.
“I am feeling a lot better health wise and can walk a lot further and for longer, weather permitting! All in all the sessions are a great help especially when I feel a bit down.
“I would recommend anyone who has a weight problem and may be a bit reluctant to join to give it a try. I was not expecting it to be a great benefit to me but it has exceeded my initial thoughts and hopes.”
Amy's success story
Amy lost 2 stone and 10 pounds throught the programme. 
"I heard about the referral scheme via Wyre Council’s Facebook page and so I asked my GP to refer me. I would most likely have joined if I hadn’t been referred, but this referral gave me a real incentive as money is tight, having two small children and being on maternity pay.
"When I first joined Slimming World, I was unhappy with how I looked. I now have lot more confidence and am liking the way I look a lot more. I feel motivated to keep going to reach my target weight. I had less energy prior to losing weight. My energy levels are now much higher and since losing weight I have had the confidence to join an aqua aerobics class.
"The best thing that’s happened as a result of my weight loss is that I can now get into a pair of jeans that I haven’t been able to wear since falling pregnant with my daughter. The support I receive from my consultant is fantastic and by staying in the group I also feel really supported by the other Slimming World members and encouraged to keep going in my weight loss journey.
"The thing I love most about Slimming World is that I am never hungry, and I don’t feel as though I am being deprived of anything. Slimming World doesn’t feel like a diet, it’s more like a lifestyle change."
Kim's success story
Kim lost 2 stone through the programme.
"I felt prompted to lose weight as I needed to lower my BMI to reduce the risks from Covid and for my general overall health. I found out about the Wyre Weight Management programme through my GP. Being on furlough made funds more difficult, so my GP referring me for the free twelve weeks was a good boost to start with.
"My health has improved since losing weight. My knees don’t hurt or throb at night, I’m not as breathless and, most importantly, my weight loss has revealed lumps in my breasts which prompted me to get them checked (luckily they’re benign). I now have more energy and can think more clearly. Losing weight has motivated me to go on a cross trainer for 20 minutes every day and I have reduced my alcohol consumption.
"The best thing that’s happened as a result of my weight loss is that I’m eating healthier and I feel good in my clothes now. People also comment on how well I have done and look, and my skin is so much clearer.
"Julie, my Consultant, is our rock. She’s always there for us. She puts us first all the time and is very supportive. She Identified psychological association with diets or rather healthy eating, triggers etc. I just love food but have developed a healthier connection to it now - and the people at group are great."
Linda's success story
Linda lost 2 stone and 10 pounds with the programme.
“I wanted to lose weight for health reasons. I found walking any distance quite difficult and could not tie my own shoelaces.
“I learned about the Slimming World free referral scheme at the doctor’s and my health professional referred me when I enquired about the poster in the reception area. It’s probably not likely that I’d have joined Slimming World without this push. I knew something had to change – so I felt fine about going to group.
“My health is much improved since losing weight. I now can walk a lot further without losing my breath, and also my sleeping has really improved.
“The best thing about my weight loss is how I feel about myself, I feel more confident about going places.
“I feel very welcome and have become part of the slimming group. Our group consultant motivates us all with her talks about different aspects of the Slimming World journey. I love the Food Optimising and how easy it is to see the Syn value on your mobile app when out shopping.”
Paula's success story
Paula lost 1 stone 10 pounds with the programme.
"I wanted to lose weight for health reasons and lack of energy. Being classed as obese made life difficult so this prompted me to make the change. I heard about the referral through my GP, it’s not likely that I would have joined Slimming World otherwise.
"When I first joined, I felt uncomfortable and embarrassed but now I love going to my group! It's fun, the people there are lovely, and I’ve made more friends.
"My health has improved massively since losing weight. I can bend down, get in and out of the car and fasten my shoes more easily. I have a better relationship with food now too.
"The best thing about my weight loss is that I feel that bit more confident in myself and every day gets better.
"What I love most about Slimming World is that my group is brilliant and never boring. My Consultant Andrea is a lovely person, so happy and jolly and with Food Optimising you can eat what you like really without feeling restricted".