Digital Weight Management Service

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What is it?

The programme offers free, remote access to weight management services for those who have:

  • A BMI greater than 30 (27.5 for people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds) 
  • and who also have either diabetes or high blood pressure, or both.

CALCULATE YOUR BMI

 You can access the programme through a referral from your GP.

If you are not eligible but want support in losing weight you can access the free NHS 12-week weight loss plan on the Better Health Weight loss app.

Why is this programme important?

Obesity is a serious health concern that increases the risk of many other health conditions. For example, Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, joint problems, mental health problems, and some cancers. There is also evidence to suggest that people living with obesity are at higher risk of more severe outcomes associated with COVID-19.

The programme offers three different levels of support, including human coaching for groups who may be less likely to complete behavioural and lifestyle change programmes, with the aim of reducing health inequalities. This includes those of younger (working) age, people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, men, and people living in more deprived communities. 

The online programme provides an alternative way of accessing weight management support. In the context of COVID-19, it means people can complete it whilst social distancing is in place.

Who can access the programme?

The programme offers free, online access to weight management services for those who have a BMI greater than 30 and who also have diabetes or high blood pressure, or both. The BMI threshold will be lower at 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.  

The programme is only available to people with a smartphone or computer with internet access.

Click on the link below for more information about Digital Weight Management

THE NHS DIGITAL WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME: PATIENT LEAFLETS