Help Groups
Counterweight
Counterweight is a low-cost nurse-led programme which equips
general practitioners and practice nurses to be able to produce
evidence-based approaches to weight management. It uses a
structured approach to care and an interactive model of
communication which is critical to empowering patients
The Counterweight Programme has been developed and evaluated
between 2000 and 2005 and has been shown to be an effective model
for obesity management within general practice. It
incorporates implementation of evidence-based pathways and
strategies to empower clinicians and patients.
Some GP practices in the Borough have already received
Counterweight training, and in 2007/08 the PCT funded training for
community groups in Counterweight to offer the service in a wider
range of venues.
If you would like to find out more about counterweight,
including how to get training for your practice staff, contact
Oonagh Griffin, Principal Community Dietician oonagh.griffin@chpct.nhs.uk
Commercial weight loss services
The main UK slimming groups all offer safe and effective dieting
plans. If you recommend these services to your patients they will
usually attend a weekly group meeting which can make it more likely
that they will follow the diet. Also the group environment means
they will meet other people trying to lose weight so they can
motivate and support each other towards their weight loss
goals.
Both WeightWatchers and Slimming World offer groups in and
around Hackney and the City of London. They also offer ‘slimming on
referral’ allowing your practice to purchase a block of sessions
for patients you think would benefit.
Use these links to find the groups closest to your practice.
link to the help groups page
WellChance.org
In addition to the section of this website for professionals,
there are also sections for the community so people can find out
more about losing weight, making healthier food choices and getting
active for themselves.
If you think your patients are motivated enough, why not sign
post them to this website, so they can find out more for
themselves.