NHS weight management support is arranged in steps, often called “tiers”. Most people start at step 1, and the more specialist services are for people with a higher BMI and weight-related health problems.
Help yourself – open to everyone (Tier 1)
Free apps, websites and local community support that you can start today, with no referral needed. Try the free NHS Weight Loss Plan, local council healthy lifestyle services, or a slimming club.
Supported programmes (Tier 2)
Free programmes that last a set number of weeks, such as:
These depend on your BMI and health. Some you can refer yourself to; others need a referral from us.
Specialist services (Tiers 3 & 4)
For people with severe obesity, a specialist team of doctors, dietitians and psychologists can help, and for some people this may include weight-loss surgery. You will usually need to have tried a step 2 programme first, and strict criteria apply.
Weight-loss medicine
Weight-loss injections such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are available on the NHS for some people who meet strict criteria. Find out more about Mounjaro.
Who can use each service?
The criteria are set by the local NHS in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire and change from time to time. We must follow the current criteria, which are published on Remedy:
Please note: lower BMI thresholds apply for people from South Asian, Chinese, Black African and African-Caribbean backgrounds.
Think you might be eligible, or not sure where to start? Contact us via GP Triage or call 01934 622665 and we will help you find the right support.