Behaviour change weight management referral schemes remain vital
Carolyn Pallister, Registered Dietitian and Head of Nutrition, Research and Health
| Slimming World
This year marks 25 years of Slimming World on Referral. This, combined with the recent announcement from the Government about the projects launched through the Obesity Pathway Innovation Programme (OPIP), presents us with a timely opportunity to reflect on how best we can continue to support the Government, local authorities and commissioners, and the NHS for years to come.
Slimming World on Referral was built on the power of collaboration. What began as a local pilot in Derbyshire in partnership with the then Greater and Central Derbyshire PCT, has since grown into an established service with dozens of schemes across the UK, helping hundreds of thousands of people take meaningful steps towards better health. And a quarter of a century on, this founding principle of collaboration remains just as important – if not more so. Healthcare professionals, local authorities and community weight management providers need to work together to make a real difference for people living with overweight and obesity.
The weight management landscape has undoubtedly changed – advances in treatment continue, with promise of more and improved medication on the horizon to help people lose weight. It’s widely recognised though, that obesity is a chronic, relapsing condition, shaped by a number of complex factors such as the environment we live in and genetics. It’s no longer viewed as just about what we eat and drink, and a single solution – whether that be medication or otherwise – cannot tackle these complexities on its own.
This is where Slimming World on Referral schemes continue to prove their value, both in cost-effectiveness and their effectiveness in supporting people to lose weight and maintain that weight loss. An analysis of 27,000 patients referred to Slimming World by their health practitioner shows an average clinically significant weight loss of over 5% was achieved by the end of the 12-week referral period.1 Also, almost two thirds (64.5%) continued to attend (self-funded) after the 12-week referral period was complete. The research also shows that benefits extend beyond weight loss, with members experiencing improvements in general health and mental wellbeing after just 12 weeks.2
The schemes offer structured, accessible support rooted in behaviour change and can be tailored to local needs – local commissioners are able to determine eligibility criteria dependent on need. Crucially, commissioners can include people prescribed weight loss medication, as sustainable change requires more than short-term intervention. It demands long-term behavioural support, understanding of individual triggers and the development of healthier habits that last after medication stops.
At the same time, the way patients want to access support is changing. Over the past 25 years, our referral schemes have evolved to meet these needs – offering both in-person group support and a digital programme. Our weekly community groups provide a unique environment where individuals are encouraged and motivated to change by people who have also lost weight with Slimming World. For others, our flexible online option offers a viable alternative that fits into their lifestyles. This adaptability is essential in ensuring that support remains relevant and inclusive and meets the need of local commissioners as well as service users.
Looking ahead, the projects through the Obesity Pathway Innovation Programme (OPIP) are exciting and innovative and it’s encouraging to see areas emphasising community-led approaches. The case for referral schemes is stronger than ever. The future of effective weight management lies in collaboration and integrated care; where community-based support like Slimming World on Referral is recognised and where clinical interventions, if needed, work hand in hand with this support.
Twenty-five years on, Slimming World on Referral is not a legacy model; it is a vital part of the future of weight management provision. We would welcome the opportunity to meet with the Government and local commissioners to discuss our commitment to helping people whose lives are adversely impacted by obesity via referral schemes supporting efforts through the OPIP projects.
References
- https://www.slimmingworld.co.uk/health/evidence-base/research-programme.aspx
- Kent, J., Toon, J., Bennett, SE., Holloway, L., Pallister, C., Lavin, J., Donovan, J., Avery, A. (2025). Changes in Health-Related Behaviours Among Adults Who Accessed Real-World Weight Management Support: 12-Month Outcomes. Cureus, 17(10): e95035.
