Innovative weight management programme for adults with learning disabilities

Members of the Enable programme from past events

A new specialist weight management programme for adults with learning disabilities has been launched across the London Boroughs of Bexley and Bromley and the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Delivered by Enable in partnership with the three boroughs, the Enable Learning Disabilities Weight Management Service aims to reduce health inequalities by promoting healthier lifestyles, and providing a supportive, accessible, and inclusive environment for participants to achieve their weight management goals and improve their overall wellbeing.

The programme will offer free, evidence-based sessions over 12 weeks, taking place in local community venues across the three boroughs. The sessions will focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, including nutrition education and physical activity, to help participants work towards a healthier weight in a way tailored to them.

People with learning disabilities (LD) are at significantly higher risk of being overweight or obese compared to the general population. This risk, in turn, increases the likelihood of a range of health and social problems. An analysis of GP data across England showed that whilst there was lower prevalence of ‘overweight’ in the LD population compared to the general population (27% compared to 31.8% respectively) there was a higher proportion of severe obesity in the LD population (37% compared to 30.1% respectively). This programme has been commissioned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, recognising the gap in provision and the need for targeted intervention.

Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services and Health, Cllr Melvin Seymour said:

Given the national picture and the levels of adults with Learning Disabilities with obesity and the suffering that the knock-on effects can cause, the introduction of this service can only be a good thing for Bexley.

Working with partners and services I hope we are able to make a real difference to the lives of local people. Although this is primarily a weight management programme it will also offer the chance of a safe social setting where like-minded people can meet and discuss the issues they face.

I look forward to seeing some success stories from all three boroughs."

How the programme works

As a Tier 2 weight management programme, this initiative focuses on long-term, sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. Participants will receive tailored support to:

  • achieve and maintain a healthier weight
  • improve their understanding of nutrition and healthier eating habits
  • increase physical activity in a way that suits their abilities and preferences
  • access ongoing support in a safe, inclusive, and engaging setting

The programme is fully accessible and designed to support individuals with learning disabilities in a way that meets their specific needs, ensuring that participants feel empowered to take control of their health.

Who can take part?

To access the programme, participants must meet the following criteria:

  • live in Bexley, Bromley or the Royal Borough of Greenwich
  • over 18
  • mild or moderate learning disability
  • BMI ≥30kg/m2 or BMI≥27.5kg/m2 if from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups

Enable’s Health and Wellbeing team has a strong track record in delivering impactful initiatives that break down barriers to better health. With expertise in reducing health inequalities, Enable works in collaboration with national organisations as well as local voluntary and community sector partners, to deliver the highest quality outcomes.

Taster sessions available

Organisations in Bexley, Bromley and the Royal Borough of Greenwich supporting people with learning disabilities can now book tailored taster sessions, featuring engaging nutrition workshops and inclusive physical activities—delivered either at your venue or a local community centre.

For more info, contact bbgweightmanagement@enablelc.org.

How to join the programme

Anyone who is eligible can be referred in a few different ways, you can self-refer, you can speak to your GP or another health professional who can refer directly, as can a carer or other support worker.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in tackling health inequalities and supporting adults with learning disabilities in Bexley, Bromley and the Royal Borough of Greenwich to lead healthier, happier lives.

*(source: Obesity and weight management for people with learning disabilities: guidance).