A NEW weight management service has been launched to help Hampshire residents to lose weight to improve their health and well-being.

Weight Watchers has been commissioned by Hampshire County Council to support those adults over 18 who want to lose weight and have been identified as obese.

For the first time, people can self refer to the service or be referred by health professionals like GPs and practice nurses.

Weight Watchers is offering, to those who are eligible, a free tailored service which includes being able to join a weight-loss group for 12 weeks.

It is hoped that participants will lose at least five per cent of their initial body weight to significantly benefit their current and future health.

A service for pregnant women, to encourage healthy eating and physical activity throughout their pregnancy, began on October 1.

Jo Measures, head of health at Weight Watchers, said: “We are incredibly pleased to be working with Hampshire County Council’s public health team to offer this service to Hampshire residents.

“Weight Watchers has a proven track record of providing weight management plans that have tangible results, plans which can be incorporated into an individual’s lifestyle in a sustainable way.”

For more details, ask your GP or visit weightwatchers.com.