Obesity is a common problem in the UK that’s estimated to affect around 1 in every 4 adults and around 1 in every 5 children aged 10 to 11. If you think you are obese, one of the things you can do is to lose weight. Losing weight reduces blood pressure, risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes and complications from Covid-19.

The Family Practice now offers a new service in collaboration with NHS Weight Management. It aims to help people reduce weight and live a healthier lifestyle. Once referred to this service, the NHS will be in touch with an appointment. For now, this will take place digitally rather than face to face.

If you would like to be referred to the Weight Management service or require more information, please contact the practice on 01229 402900.

If you are not sure you need this, you can check your Body Mass Index (BMI) – this is a value derived from the mass and height of a person. BMI is a measure of whether you’re a healthy weight for your height. We have a machine in surgery that measures your BMI as well as blood pressure, You can come in to surgery to use this at any time we are open with no appointment necessary. This can be a big indicator on whether a referral to this service is necessary for yourself.

For more information about the causes, diagnosis and treatment of Obesity, please visit the NHS website (external site).

The Family Practice has also produced a guide with 21 tips to help you lose weight. You can download a PDF copy here.