Digital weight management service
There are services and programmes to help manage weight that are available through the NHS and other third-party related organisations.
NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
This cutting-edge digital 12 week programme caters to the needs of adult individuals grappling with the challenges of obesity, compounded with a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension, or both.
It’s free and easily available via a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
How to start
To begin, you need to contact your local GP practice who can refer you to the programme.
Who can be referred to the digital programme?
- You must be 18 or over.
- You must have a BMI greater than 30. The BMI threshold will be lowered to 27.5 for people from black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds, as we know people from these ethnic backgrounds are at an increased risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes at a lower BMI.
- You must have diabetes, high blood pressure, or both.
- You must have a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access.
Duration
This programme is a comprehensive 12 week online intervention that utilises evidence-based behavioural strategies and lifestyle modifications to achieve transformative results.
12 week Referral Hub triages service user to 1 of 3 intervention levels:
- 1 – digital content only
- 2 – digital + minimum 50 mins human coaching
- 3 – digital + 100 mins human coaching
Patient outcomes reported as Discharge Summary sent directly from NHS Referral Hub to GP.
Defining weight management
Weight management refers to the process of maintaining a healthy body weight through a combination of proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and lifestyle modifications.
Furthermore, it involves adopting sustainable habits that promote a balance between energy intake (calories consumed) and energy expenditure (calories burned).
It involves making long-term changes to one’s eating patterns and physical activity levels in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Watch the NHS video below about the Digital Weight Management Programme to learn more.
Managing health conditions
Weight management is important for individuals who are looking to prevent or manage chronic conditions such as;
- obesity
- diabetes
- heart disease
- certain types of cancer
Managing outcomes
This can also improve overall quality of life by increasing energy levels, enhancing the following:
- self-esteem and body image
- reducing joint pain
- improving mobility and flexibility
- promoting better mental health
Achieving goals
The goal of managing your weight is not solely focused on achieving a specific number on the scale, but rather on achieving overall health and well-being.
It involves making long-term changes to one’s eating patterns and physical activity levels in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Management strategies
Effective strategies to manage your weight may include;
- portion control
- mindful eating
- incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into one’s diet
- regular exercise
- stress management techniques
- adequate sleep
- seeking support from healthcare professionals or support groups
It is worth noting that weight management is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Each individual’s journey towards achieving their desired weight will be unique based on factors such as;
- age
- gender
- genetics
- metabolism rate
- medical history
- lifestyle choices
- personal goals
Consulting with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians can provide personalised guidance for effective weight management strategies tailored to individual needs.
Other types of weight management services
There are services and programmes to help manage weight that are available through the NHS and other third-party related organisations.
Healthier You
Healthier You is a NHS diabetes prevention programme for people that meet the following criteria:
- Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes
- Pregnant
- Aged 80+ years
*Aged 80+ years can attend if GP views benefits outweigh potential risks associated with weight loss
Duration
The duration of the programme is 9 months:
- Either 13 x 1.5hrs group sessions via Telecall, MS Teams or face to face (* Sessions 1-4 every 2wks then monthly. Accompanying resources sent to service user.)
- Or Digital App – minimum contact required every 2wks. (Physical activity & weight tracking tech sent to service user. Access to online community, articles & recipes. Patient outcomes reported as Discharge Summary sent directly from provider to GP)
Click here to learn more about the Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
Freshwell Low Carb Project
This project encourages members of the community to live a Real Food Low Carb lifestyle so they can be as healthy as possible.
This project grew out of concern regarding the surging prevalence of type 2 diabetes in recent times.
That coupled with the extensively documented escalation of obesity within the populace of the United Kingdom.
Duration
The duration of this service is 6 weeks.
Consists of 6 educational videos delivered by programme’s GP leads plus either:
- 6 group sessions via Zoom with Health Coach;
- or up to 6 x 1:1 telephone support sessions with Health Coach.
Recipes & additional resources available from website or from free to download Freshwell App.
Peer to peer support offered through programme’s Facebook community group.
Click here to learn more about the Freshwell Low Carb Project.
Essex Wellbeing Service
This organisation offers supportive, inclusive activities supported by volunteers to people who would otherwise be socially isolated from the community.
The name of the programme is called My Weight Matters.
Duration
The duration of this service is 12 weeks.
My Weight Matters programme offers:
- face to face
- video call
- phone support
- a Health & Wellbeing Practitioner
Online programme also available with additional resources and recipes.
1 to 1 behavioural support with weight loss is also available through their Health Trainer service.
Visit this link for more information, support and services for managing your weight.