Slimming World backs minister on weight loss incentives
Slimming World's Head of Public Affairs Jenny Caven welcomes comments made by Government minister Claire Perry, who today advocated encouraging rather than punishing people who are struggling to lose weight.
Jenny Caven, Head of Public Affairs said:
"Claire Perry's statement that the carrot approach is more effective than the stick approach in helping people to lose weight and lead healthier lifestyles is spot on. After 46 years of helping people to lose weight we know only too well that threatening and trying to frighten people into making lifestyle changes simply does not work. It's counterproductive to judge, humiliate or discount people who struggle with their weight. To achieve long term successful behaviour change those who are overweight should be treated with understanding support, kindness and respect, regardless of their weight.
"There is no need for confusion about what works. Politicians must start to consistently listen to weight management experts that have a proven and consistent record of long term success. Furthermore, any incoming government must make tackling the crisis of overweight a priority and do more to help people successfully manage their weight healthily to relieve the heavy financial burden that obesity-related treatments place on the NHS. A starting point, which Slimming World calls for in its five point manifesto, is to ensure that all health and education professionals are trained to recognise the issue of weight, understand the difficulties faced by those who struggle with their weight, and signpost them to expert advice and support."
