Where to get help
Help is available for Thurrock residents whose weight puts them at higher risk of ill-health.
We've organised local programmes that can help with weight management. These are for eligible adults aged 18 years-old or older.
To find out whether you're eligible for any of the programmes listed below, you first you need to check your body mass index (BMI). You can do this online using the NHS BMI calculator.
If eligible, you can only sign-up for one course so try to choose the one that's best for you.
Slimming World
Slimming World offers a 12-week course of group sessions to help people eat more healthily and have a more active lifestyle. You can check your weight each week to see your progress, and you'll be given ideas and recipes to help you lose weight.
This course is also suitable for pregnant women and those with Type 2 Diabetes.
To take part, you must:
- have a BMI of at least 25 – or at least 23 if you're from a black or minority ethnic group – and no more than 39.9
- not already be a Slimming World member or have been a member in the past 3 months
This course is free to those eligible.
To register, contact Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service.
Impulse Leisure exercise on referral
Impulse Leisure exercise on referral programme offers 12 weeks of gym-based activity for those who wish to lose weight and increase their physical activity levels. It provides a range of options suitable to your needs, helping you work towards long-term lifestyle changes.
To refer yourself to this programme, you must:
- have a BMI of at least 25 – or at least 23 if you're from a black or minority ethnic group – and no more than 39.9
- have no long-term health conditions, such as cancer, stroke, hypertension (high blood pressure), heart attack, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), mental health conditions, neuromuscular conditions – for example, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease – or conditions affecting bones, joints or mobility
If you have any of the long-term conditions above but would still like to take part, speak with your GP as they may be able to refer you to this programme.
The cost is £3 per week, or £1.50 per week if you receive benefits.
To register, contact Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service.
NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme is a 12-week online programme that supports adults living with obesity who also have a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension or both, to manage their weight and improve their health.
To take part, you must have:
- a BMI of at least 30
- a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure) or both
- a smartphone or computer with internet access
You can only take part in this programme by GP referral – ask your GP for details.
Where else you can get help
If you are worried about your weight, you can also get help from: