Diabetes Week 2026: How one Slimming World member from Purbrook transformed their health
A Dad and Grandfather from Purbrook has shared his story this Diabetes Week and Men’s Health Week after losing 4 stone with Slimming World and changing his life by putting his type 2 diabetes into remission, without any medication, just weight loss, and the support from his Slimming World group and Slimming World Consultant, Mel Knibbs.
Derek Payne, joined the Purbrook Slimming World group, which is run by Mel, after his family were very concerned about his health. Since then, he has lost 4 stone. Derek says: “While my health and specifically my type 2 diabetes diagnosis was a big factor in deciding to lose weight, I didn’t dare to dream I’d see the improvements that I have. When I started, I was just hoping to feel a bit better in myself. I feel lighter – physically and emotionally. I’m more positive and feel so much more in control of my health”.
“It’s not just about the numbers on the scales though, as pleased as I am with those – it’s the way I wake up with more energy and confidence. I didn’t realise just how much my weight was affecting me day to day until things started to change. For the first time in years, I feel like my health is heading in the right direction and I’m so grateful to Slimming World for that. My Type 2 Diabetes HbA1c reading has gone from 76 mmol to 36 mmol putting me into diabetes remission and I’ve achieved this without any medication, simply by following the Slimming World plan. It’s completely changed my life!”
Diabetes UK estimates that 4.6 million people are living with a diagnosis of diabetes in the UK, and research shows that, among other risk factors, carrying excess weight can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
When someone living with diabetes joins Slimming World they receive tailored resources, including a dedicated booklet created in partnership with Diabetes UK, which supports them in adapting Slimming World’s healthy eating plan to their individual needs and stay in line with advice of their healthcare team.
Nationally, Slimming World and Diabetes UK are working together to encourage conversations around prevention and support healthier lifestyles.
Mel has run the Purbrook Slimming World group at Phoenix Community Centre since June 2019. She says: “Diabetes Week is an important opportunity to highlight the impact that healthy lifestyle changes can have not just on people’s lives but their health too. At Slimming World, we see every week how making changes to the way you cook, eat and think about food and activity can help members improve their health, confidence and overall wellbeing.”
For more information about the Purbrook Slimming World group, contact Mel Knibbs on 07702633420 or pop along to one of her groups - Wednesdays at Phoenix Community Centre, Crookhorn Lane. PO75QB at 9am, 10.30am, 4.30pm, 6pm & 7.30pm and Mondays at HSDC South Downs College, College Road, Waterlooville. PO78AA.