Sarah Brittle, from East Kilbride, has lost four stone with Slimming World and says the journey has transformed far more than her appearance, changing her physical and mental wellbeing and the way she lives her life every day.
Her colleagues have noticed the difference too, often commenting on how much happier and more content she seems.
“My colleagues often tell me I seem happier, lighter and far more content than I used to be,” Sarah said. “Comments like that give you a real lift. They remind you that the changes you’re making are visible, meaningful and worth every bit of effort.”
Family support and new rituals
The positive impact has extended into Sarah’s family life, with everyone now enjoying more activities together. Sarah goes to the gym three to four times a week and has even inspired her mum to join too.
Every Tuesday evening, Sarah and her mum have developed their own special ritual — a phone call to check in, share their progress and motivate one another.
“It’s become a moment we both look forward to,” Sarah said. “It’s a reminder that we’re on this journey side by side.”
Food has also played an important part in Sarah’s transformation. Although she is the first to admit she has never considered herself a great cook, Slimming World has helped her discover simple, satisfying meals that fit easily into everyday life.
“I’ll be the first to admit I’m not a great cook — I never have been,” she laughed. “But Slimming World has helped me find simple meals I genuinely enjoy. My favourite is pasta Bolognese for lunch. It’s filling and comforting, and I don’t feel like I’m missing out.”
Encouragement from consultant Hazel
Family support has been invaluable too. When Sarah is struggling or short on time, her dad, a keen cook, often steps in with homemade meals — including his much-loved chilli.
“My dad is a brilliant cook and often drops meals off for me,” Sarah said. “His chilli is so good that sometimes I hide it from my daughter and partner because it’s too good to share!”
While the support of her family has been hugely important, Sarah says one of the biggest influences on her journey has been the encouragement she receives from her local Slimming World group and her consultant, Hazel.
“Hazel is truly exceptional,” Sarah said. “She’s always positive, always encouraging and always willing to go the extra mile.”
That support does not end when Sarah leaves the group. Whether through a video, message, card or quick phone call during a difficult week, Hazel is there to help her regain focus and move forward.
“If you’re finding things tough, she’s there,” Sarah explained. “She helps you put a difficult week behind you and refocus on what’s ahead. That kind of support is rare — and it’s powerful.”
A community, not a diet
For Sarah, this sense of support and community has been one of the reasons her experience has felt so different from previous attempts to lose weight.
“I’ve never been someone who sticks to diets,” she said. “But this isn’t a diet to me. It’s a community, a healthier way of living and a place where you feel welcomed, supported and understood.”
The friendships she has made and the sense of belonging she has found have become an important part of Sarah’s journey. She remains committed to improving her health, to the friends she has made, to Hazel and to the Slimming World plan.
“It has given me structure, confidence and a sense of belonging that I didn’t realise I was missing,” Sarah said.
Now, with four stone already lost, Sarah hopes sharing her experience will encourage others who may be considering making positive changes to their own health and wellbeing. Her message to anyone thinking about taking that first step is simple.
“You don’t have to do it alone,” Sarah said. “With the right support, the right plan and the right people around you, you can achieve more than you ever imagined.”
For Sarah, what began as a decision to improve her health has grown into something much bigger — a healthier lifestyle, stronger family connections, new friendships and a renewed confidence in herself and her future.
Sarah’s consultant Hazel said: “Supporting Sarah on her journey has been a highlight of my time as a consultant. Sarah embraced food optimising 100 per cent from the start and it shows in her results. Her determination is second to none and the positivity she brings to group each week is amazing. I am so incredibly proud of her.”
Hazel’s group runs every Tuesday at 4pm and 5.30pm in The Village Centre, Maxwell Drive, G74 4HG. For Hazel’s latest joining offers or for more information, contact Hazel on 07821 440225.
