The table below outlines the two delivery options.

Participants are encouraged to attend for the full duration of the program to give the best chance of getting results. Because both options are running concurrently, there is the opportunity to switch between groups if needed, to help you to access all of the content.

To express your interest in the programme, you must complete the enrolment form attached and send to wellbeinghub@merseycare.nhs.uk.

There are a limited number of spaces available for the face to face group and places will be offered on a first come first serve basis and in accordance with the eligibility criteria.

If your preference is to join the virtual group, you can book in for a Mini Health Checks at Work to have your measurements taken by a team member.

Programme content

The Why Weight content has been developed to follow NHS Better Health campaign principles. The advice you will be given in the programme is primarily generic advice, which is suitable for most. If any information we give contradicts the information you have been given by your health care professional, we advise that you go with their advice. This is because it has been specifically tailored to your individual needs.

If you prefer to join the face-to-face group and choose to take part in the exercise class, you will need to ensure you are dressed in suitable clothing and footwear. Changing facilities are available at the venue.

If your preference is to join the virtual group, you can book in for a Mini Health Checks at Work to have your measurements taken by a team member.  If you choose to complete the exercise component, you will need to ensure the space you are viewing the virtual content from, is suitable to complete physical activity in.

Suitability and exclusion criteria

We want to make Why Weight as inclusive as possible to support you with your weight loss goals.

However, as the Health and Wellbeing Facilitators are not registered dietitians or registered nutritionists, exclusion criteria have been put in place, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues.

The enrolment form you have been asked to complete will enable the team to review your application and will consider the following:

• Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Health goals
• Medical history

Dependant on what you declare on the form, you may be contacted by the team for further information.

Better Health

Healthy changes start with little changes. Whether you want to lose weight, drink less alcohol, get active or quit smoking, you have access to lots of free tools and support through Better Health. You can also find simple ways to lift your mood with Every Mind Matters.

The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme

The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme could help you if you are living with obesity and also have diabetes, high blood pressure, or both. If this is you, you could benefit from this 12-week programme. It’s free and easily available via a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

To start your journey to a healthier lifestyle, you need to speak to your GP or a local pharmacist who can refer you to the programme.

Please note that GP and pharmacy teams may be very busy at this time.

You can read more about the programme in the NHS England leaflet or watch this video:

Services across the Liverpool City Region and Cheshire

Halton: Fresh Start Weight Management Programme

Healthy Knowlsey

Liverpool's community based healthy weight service

Sefton: Weigh Forward

St Helens weight management

Warrington healthy weight information

Wirral: I want to lose weight