Weight Management Support Options

Shore Medical

At Shore Medical, we know that weight and health can be personal. We want patients to feel informed, supported and able to access the right help at the right time.

There are different levels of NHS and local weight management support available in Dorset. Some options are open to everyone and can be accessed straight away. Other services have specific eligibility criteria based on BMI, medical conditions and previous support tried.

Please select the section below that applies to you to read more about the options that may be available. If you are unsure which section applies to you, please use the NHS BMI calculator here: Calculate your body mass index (BMI) – NHS – NHS

Level 1: BMI 25-29.9

These options are free and available to adults in Dorset. You do not need a GP referral and there is no waiting list.

Live Well Dorset

Live Well Dorset offers free coaching and support for adults in Dorset. You can self-refer online, call the team, or ask the practice to refer you.

Contact:
0800 840 1628
livewelldorset.co.uk
Monday to Friday, 9am to 6:30pm

NHS Apps

There are lots of NHS resources available, free of charge and right at your fingertips.

NHS Weight Loss Plan

A 12-week plan with meal ideas, calorie guides, activity tips, and more.

NHS Weight Loss App – App Store

Apple Store

NHS Weight Loss App – Apps on Google Play

Couch to 5K

A beginner running programme that helps you build up gradually over 9 weeks.

NHS Couch to 5K App – App Store

Apple Store

Couch to 5K©  – Apps on Google Play

Active 10
A walking app that tracks brisk walking and sets small, achievable changes.

NHS Active 10 Walking Tracker App – App Store

Apple Store

NHS Active 10 Walking Tracker App – Apps on Google Play

NHS Better Health
Healthy recipes, eating guides, activity ideas, and wellbeing support

NHS Better Health

Level 2: BMI 30-34.9

If you have already tried self-help options and would like something more structured, there are free 12-week programmes available. These programmes can help build healthier habits through support, coaching, and gentle guidance.

Live Well Dorset Healthy Choices Kick-Start Scheme
This scheme offers 12 weeks of fully funded support through either Slimming World or Second Nature. It also includes follow-up support at 6 and 12 months.

You can contact Live Well Dorset directly to check if you are eligible.
0800 840 1628
livewelldorset.co.uk

NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
This is a 12-week digital programme for people with Type 2 Diabetes and/or High Blood Pressure. It can include nutrition advice, activity guidance, wellbeing support, and coaching.

A GP or Pharmacist referral is required.

Level 3: BMI 35-49.9

If you fall into this category, you may be eligible for specialist clinical weight management support. This does not mean you do not have access to previous resources, like Live Well Dorset or NHS apps. These are freely available if you wish to use them. (Please see Level 1 & 2 for more information).

Specialist Support (Non-Medicated)
Patients may be eligible for non-medicated specialist support through Oviva.
Oviva is the NHS Dorset commissioned provider for specialist weight management. The programme is delivered remotely, so no clinic visits are required.

A GP or Pharmacist referral is required.

Specialist Support (Medicated)
Patients may be eligible for medicated specialist support.

To qualify, a patient must have at least 4 of the 5 below conditions:

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
  • High Cholesterol
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Sleep Apnoea

Please note that access to the medicated pathway will be opening gradually and therefore eligibility criterion will depend on the current phase of the programme.

A GP or Pharmacist referral is required.

Level 4: BMI 50 or higher

Regardless of a higher BMI, you can still access previous levels of support. (Please see Level 1-3 for more information).

Weight loss surgery may be an option for patients with severe obesity. However, before surgery is considered, most patient need to complete special clinical weight management support. This may include dietician aid, health coaching, behaviour therapy, medical oversight, and medication, if appropriate.

Weight loss surgery may be considered if patients meet certain criteria, this may include:

  • Completing specialist weight management support
  • Being medically and psychologically prepared for surgery
  • Being a non-smoker, or having successfully stopped smoking
  • Achieving target weight set by the clinical team
  • Being committed to lifelong dietary changes and follow-up

The surgical team would discuss and advise the most appropriate option on a case-by-case basis. The most common procedures are:

Gastric Sleeve: Part of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller stomach. This reduces overall food intake and can affect hunger hormones.
Gastric Bypass: The stomach is made smaller and part of the small intestine is rerouted. This can lead to significant weight loss and may be particularly effective for those with Type 2 Diabetes.

Other options may be considered based on individual circumstances.

Surgery is a major, irreversible decision. The clinical team will provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision; such as the benefits, risks, and alternatives. You will never be pressured into surgery; the choice always lies with you.

What’s involved?

  • Assessment by specialist team at University Hospitals Dorset
  • Education sessions about surgery, recovery, and life post-surgery
  • Surgery
  • Follow-up and lifelong monitoring