Slimming World was founded in Alfreton, Derbyshire in 1969 by Margaret Miles-Bramwell, who remains the driving force behind the company today.
Margaret had struggled with her own weight since childhood and she understood that people who are overweight carry a double burden - the physical burden of excess weight and the sometimes far heavier burden of shame and self-criticism.
Slimming World has been so much of a success in the 50 years since it was first
launched that most people now have a group on their doorstep.
Consultant Karen Wright runs one of those successful groups in Parkhead.
With her support, lots of members at her two Thursday morning sessions at Calton Parkhead Parish Church in Helenvale Street have achieved their dream target weight, so it is no surprise that she was inundated with demands to open an evening group.
With obesity on the increase, and so many people needing help with their weight, Karen launched a weekly 5.30pm evening session at the same venue. Karen aims to help as many people as she can by supporting them all the way to target, helping them achieve their dreams, gain a sense of achievement and confidence, feel great and be healthier and happier.
Karen has lost 4 stones on the Slimming World Food Optimising Plan and knows the struggle of being overweight. She understands the members’ emotions and has a loving, caring but firm approach in supporting them. Karen said: “Our Food Optimising Plan worked so well for me because I love my food and the thought of counting calories had haunted me for many years so I was excited to have a new eating plan that meant I could still eat all of my favourite meals and lose weight! Also, spending one hour every week at my amazing group with the support of the other members and my consultant - the package of support - is what helped me all the way.
“So if you are overweight or want to feel healthier and happier then come along to our new group and do something that your future self will thank you for.”
For details of all Slimming World groups throughout the east end, see the ‘Weekly Classes’.
