Sussex Slimming World groups get ready to blossom this Spring

Slimming World Consultant Debbie says her Slimming Groups in Copthorne and East Grinstead continue to play a vital role as weight-loss injections rise in popularity. She says “We’ve always known that there’s real power in community support. We’re seeing the accountability that comes from losing weight alongside others is still as relevant as ever. Our approach continues to resonate with people seeking sustainable weight loss. For 56 years we’ve seen that real change doesn’t happen in isolation – it happens when you’re surrounded by people who understand your challenges – they’re there for the highs and the lows, helping you to lose weight and build confidence.”

While the interest around weight-loss injections has grown, Amanda, who also has a Saturday morning group in East Grinstead says the groups have seen strong attendance and growing interest: “Our group attracts a wide range of members – from young adults to older members, each bringing their own experiences, challenges and goals. Members say the sense of belonging, accountability and encouragement they find in the group is what keeps them coming back, even as new weight-loss trends emerge.”

Slimming World groups welcome anyone looking to lose weight, including those taking weight-loss medication. Debbie says: “Many members say they value an approach that focuses on healthy eating, behaviour change and emotional support – elements that help them maintain weight loss long after the initial motivation fades.”

Eric, age 73, joined Debbie’s Copthorne group and reached his Target after losing 4 stone 6lb, and has stayed at Target for over 12 years.

He says “For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a problem with my weight; how easy it is to put it on and how difficult to lose. Before joining Slimming World, I’d tried several different diets from straight calorie counting (you soon get tired of that), to low carbohydrate to the cabbage soup diet. As with others who struggle with their weight, I found it difficult enough to lose the pounds but keeping it off was harder still”.

Around the time I joined Slimming World I’d lost a bit of weight but was demoralised because it was creeping back up towards 18 stones, my highest ever weight. The turning point came one day when I was leaning forwards to tie my shoe laces and when I sat up, I was out of breath; the roll of fat around my waist had pushed the air from my lungs. “That’s it; I’ve had enough” I said to my wife.

By coincidence, at the same time, a leaflet from Slimming World had been delivered so I contacted Debbie, asked “do men come to your meetings?” and reassured that they did and by her positive support, I went to my first group meeting. To this day, I don’t understand the science of Slimming World, I only know that it works; there’s no need to feel hungry, count calories or watch every mouthful you eat. For me, Food Optimising became a way of life enabling me to lose nearly 4 ½ stones and maintain my target weight for nearly 12 years”.

“Why it has been so successful for me is, I believe, due to the support of the Slimming World consultant and the weekly group meetings in general. There is no need to feel guilty if you have a disappointing week; if you relax a bit, you know what to do to get back on course and the greatest incentive, in my view, is the self-respect you get from losing the weight, reaching your target and maintaining it and knowing that you’ll be going to a group meeting provides the focus for managing your plan”

Debbie explains that Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, remains at the heart of every member’s success. She says: “Each week members learn how to enjoy a wide range of satisfying meals while building long-term healthy habits as part of their everyday life. For anyone taking weight-loss medication, the healthfulness of the plan is especially important – when appetite is reduced and smaller portions are required, every bite really does count. Members can feel reassured that they’re getting a balanced, nutritious diet, rich in protein, fibre and all the essentials their body needs. Ongoing support between groups is also available through the app – with progress charts, a huge range of food choices and practical tools to stay motivated between groups.”

Amanda says: “When someone joins a Slimming World group, they step into a space where they’re supported, encouraged and genuinely understood. Week by week, members lose weight by turning small changes around food, drink and activity into lasting habits. They share ideas, swap inspiration and gain a lifelong toolkit for healthy living. This support is essential for anyone using weight-loss medication – it helps you feel confident you’re losing weight in a healthy way, giving you the strongest chance of maintaining that weight loss long term.

“Members continue to achieve life-changing weight losses, often describing the group as a place where they rediscover confidence, build friendships and feel understood. The supportive environment helps people navigate the ups and downs of their journey.”

Mandy, who attends Debbie’s Copthorne Wednesday morning group, has lost 8 stone overall since joining Slimming World. She says: “Slimming World has honestly changed my whole life. I joined my slimming world group after a breast cancer diagnosis. When they weighed me at hospital I couldn’t believe I weighed just over 19 stone, I was so disgusted with myself. I put a plan in motion to beat breast cancer and embrace a healthier lifestyle”

She goes on to say “I couldn’t believe I could eat so much and feel full, without saying goodbye to my favourite dishes. I made healthier choices and adapted slight changes to how I cooked and picking healthier ingredients.”

“The weight started to come off and I was feeling so much better. I’ve come off my blood pressure medication and now 8 stone lighter means Ive dropped from size 24/26 to 12/14 . I now have more energy, I feel so much healthier and I feel amazing.

Mandy finishes by saying “Breast Cancer treatment may have saved my life but I now know Slimming world has too!”

“Ive made so many lovely friends, and we support each other with the help and support of our amazing consultant.

Turning up each week and being surrounded by people who cheer you on makes such a massive difference. There’s something powerful about walking into a room where everyone genuinely wants you to succeed – we all lift each other up, no judgement, just encouragement.”

Slimming World groups are held in and around the area Mondays - Saturdays. To join, pop along or contact Debbie on 07584 166228. For more information, or to find your nearest group visit Slimming World.