Slimming World’s support system is a complex process of individual support in a powerfully motivating group setting, made simple for group members. It avoids any criticism, control or judgement and uses elements of techniques including Transactional Analysis, Motivational Interviewing, influence of ego states on behaviour and more recently Compassionate Mind Theory, to help individuals overcome their own personal barriers to change and to avoid relapse.

Based on a deep understanding of the psychology of living with overweight, our support system is designed to increase the confidence and self-esteem of our members, while equipping them with tools to develop lasting self-determined behaviour change.

Our support is based on the belief that the burden carried is two-fold. There is the burden of the excess weight itself, but there is also a far heavier burden to be lifted – that of shame, self-criticism and poor self-esteem. For many people, successful long-term weight loss can only be achieved by tackling these deeper emotional issues, and this support is only effective when it is delivered with genuine warmth, compassion, empathy, respect and understanding.

Slimming World’s support system takes members through the phases of commitment to change: through psychological commitment and behavioural commitment. It reinforces these consistently until behaviour becomes intrinsic, ie it has become important to them and they are no longer dependent on reward or praise.

Your patients can find their nearest Slimming World group, and learn more about what to expect, here.

Focus on achievement

• Members’ weights are kept confidential
• Members are encouraged to set sensible and realistic goals for long-term success
• Members choose their own Personal Achievement Targets for weight loss, both short-term and long-term, when, and if, they feel ready to do so
• Members are supported in maintaining their weight loss by the offer of free membership for life when personal targets are reached
• Members are initially encouraged to focus on losing and maintaining 10% of their body weight, highlighting the health benefits of modest amounts of weight loss

Slimming World’s award system helps the member to stay motivated throughout their journey by breaking down their overall goal (one that can seem enormous at the beginning of the journey) into mini targets, and rewarding gradual changes in behaviour.

Find your nearest Slimming World group

Slimming World groups have the expertise and experience to help in behaviour change. They are also another brick in the wall of social support that is necessary to tackle obesity in the UK.

Andy Hill, Professor of Medical Psychology, Leeds University School of Medicine