No jabs, just the joy of community: Josh’s Slimming World journey goes beyond the scales

Josh’s story reflects new research showing members aged 18–34 who attend Slimming World groups are losing weight, gaining confidence, improving their physical and mental health and creating healthy lifelong habits.

The study of over 3,200 Slimming World members aged 18-34 found they lost an average of 12 per cent of their body weight – around 2st 1lb. Yet, the research revealed that the benefits of being a Slimming World member go far beyond physical change.

The findings come as experts warn younger adults face the greatest risk of future weight gain. Global studies predict one in three children, teenagers and young adults could be living with overweight or obesity by 2050.

He says: “I worried I wouldn’t fit in, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Slimming World has given me so much more than weight loss. As well losing 7 stone, so far, I’ve made friends, built confidence and finally feel in control. Crucially, I’ve lost weight without missing out on life and I’ve inspired others to join Slimming World which means the world to me.

“Mentally and physically, I’ve never felt better. My diabetes is under control and managed and I now walk everywhere without getting out of breath and feeling self conscious. My anxiety which started in college meant I stayed at home a lot gaming but now I feel confident meeting new people and being in social situations.

“Going to my Slimming World group each week has been a lifeline for me – I feel motivated, heathier and happier. So much of our lives are online now, so I found it incredibly refreshing to be part of a real-life community. It felt like such a safe space – there was absolutely no judgement – and I learned to be kinder to myself. Feeling part of something and knowing others genuinely care about your success is what keeps me coming back to group on those weeks when my commitment wavers, because I know I’ll get the support I need.

“I’m so glad I found Slimming World in my 20s and in November I turned 30 and feel I have such a bright future. Being part of a group where I feel truly supported changes everything. I’ve lost over 7 stone, but more importantly, I’ve gained confidence, better mental health and a sense of belonging I didn’t know I needed. No matter your age, there are people you’ll click with – I only wish I’d joined sooner.”

Slimming World’s unique approach combines a flexible, science-backed healthy eating plan with weekly group support. Members gain a deeper understanding of their personal barriers to weight loss and learn practical strategies to make lasting changes. Through shared experiences and encouragement, members are supported to navigate the ups and downs of weight loss while feeling part of an uplifting community.

Younger adults in Stourbridge are transforming their lives, says Caroline Pitt, who runs Slimming World groups in the area. Caroline says: “We’re seeing incredible transformations – not just in weight loss, but in confidence and overall wellbeing. In a world dominated by screens and remote working, our weekly face-to-face groups feel like a breath of fresh air.

“This research confirms what we see every week in Slimming World groups across the UK and Ireland: our younger members are thriving. Whether they’re new parents who’ve found friendship and support or professionals who’ve built confidence and resilience – they’re finding real, human connection is powerful.

“When you’re losing weight alongside others, the accountability and commitment you share, makes all the difference – it’s what drives real, sustainable success. Slimming World doesn’t just help people to lose weight – our members gain control, build confidence, improve their physical and mental health and find strength in a supportive community.”

Caroline adds: “We spoke to more than 3,000 members aged 18-34 last January and Josh’s story mirrors what they told us – that when you join a Slimming World group, you step into a space where you’re supported, encouraged and understood. 

"Week by week, members turn small changes around food, drink and activity into lasting habits. The research speaks for itself – the vast majority (92 per cent) of the members questioned say they now feel part of a supportive community, 93 per cent feel supported to change their mindset around food and 72 per cent say they’d recommend Slimming World to someone their age.

“For more than 55 years, we’ve helped people of all ages lose weight and change their lives and that includes our younger members. They’re not just following a plan; they’re gaining a lifelong toolkit for healthy living.”

For more information, or to find your nearest group, visit the Slimming World website.