A programme which helps you to make small, sustainable lifestyle changes to better manage your weight.
The programme includes:
- An initial assessment with a specialist dietitian to determine what type of support is most suitable
- A 3 month group programme with 9 months of follow up sessions
- Behaviour change techniques
- Psychologically informed sessions
- Access to supported physical activity
As part of this programme we also provide:
Group Education
During the groups, we will cover a range of topics including:
- Healthy balanced eating & regular eating
- Meal planning & portion sizes
- Fad diets & food rules
- Managing hunger & cravings
- Physical activity
- Sleep
- Environmental factors influencing weight
- Barriers to change
- Weight stigma & body image
- Relaxation, self-care & mindfulness
- Managing lapses & unhelpful thinking styles
- Self-monitoring
We will focus on improvements in your health and wellbeing. If you would like to monitor any weight changes, there will be access to weighing scales at every session for those who would like to use them, this is optional.
We meet every 2 weeks for 3 months for a total of 6 sessions initially. Each session lasts one and a half hours. We will send details of your group dates and times a week before your start date, via email or post.
You may opt to join online or at one of our Lothian venues.
We will confirm the location or link for the online group a week before your start date.
The group is usually around 10-15 people.
We will follow up after the initial group with further monthly sessions, which will be discussed as part of the programme.
Psychology support
At initial assessment the dietitian will discuss your relationship with food to help build a better picture of this with you. You may be referred to one of our weight management psychologists after this assessment if deemed appropriate before starting the group programme.
Physical activity
At assessment you will also be offered the opportunity to take part in our physical activity programme. This involves a 1:1 appointment with our exercise specialist, followed by a 12 week group exercise programme at one of our community venues across Lothian or a referral to our local leisure teams for supported physical activity.
Get in touch
You can self-refer to our service by completing our self referral form.
Email: loth.weightmanagement@nhs.scot
Phone: 0131 537 9169
Woodlands House
Astley Ainslie Hospital
74 Canaan Lane
Edinburgh
EH9 2TB
