Community, confidence and two-and-a-half stone lost: how one Waterlooville mum and bride changed her life without weight loss drugs
Claire Pymont, mum of two from Waterlooville lost two-and-a-half stone after swapping short-term solutions for lifelong change. Claire says from the moment she joined her local Slimming World group, she instantly felt understood, lost more weight than she believed possible and gained benefits which went beyond the scales.
Claire’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 study1 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:
- 92 per cent feel part of a supportive community
- 89 per cent report a healthier relationship with food
- 59 per cent say their mental wellbeing has improved
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 20502.
Claire 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 as reaching my target weight, I lost weight for my wedding and wore the dress of my dreams. I’ve made friends, built confidence and finally feel in control. Crucially, I’ve lost weight without missing out on life. Mentally and physically, I’ve never felt better.
“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 thirties. Being part of a group where I feel truly supported changes everything. I’ve lost over 2st, 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 Waterlooville and Purbrook are transforming their lives”, says Mel Knibbs, who runs Slimming World groups in the area. Mel 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.”
Mel adds: “We spoke to more than 3,000 members aged 18-34 last January and Claire’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.”
Claire says of Mell: "Mel’s Slimming World group is like a warm hug ! Everyone is so friendly and Mel is lovely and so supportive, I couldn’t recommend her slimming world groups enough, its part of my weekly routine now and I'm so grateful for all her support’."
The Waterlooville Slimming World group is held every Monday at Waterlooville Community Centre at 5pm & 6.30pm. Mel also runs groups at Phoenix Community Centre in Purbrook on Wednesdays at 9am, 10.30am, 4.30pm, 6pm & 7.30pm. To join, pop along or contact Mel on 07702633420. For more information, or to find your nearest group visit Slimming World.