New Slimming World consultant to use her experience to help Poulton people achieve their goals with new group

A Poulton woman who lost more than three stones on her own weight-loss journey is now hoping to use her experience to help other local people achieve their own goals.

Amanda Ashford, who runs Slimming World groups in the local area, has taken on the Poulton group permanently, adding it to the two groups she already runs in Layton.

For Amanda, the new group is particularly meaningful because she knows first-hand what it feels like to begin a weight-loss journey and wonder whether reaching a dream weight is really possible.

“I know what it feels like to start a weight-loss journey and wonder whether you can really achieve the weight you dream of,” said Amanda.

“I lost 3st 2lb myself to reach my target, so I understand the challenges, the celebrations and everything in between.

“But for me, reaching target isn’t where the journey ends. I want to help people reach their dream weight and then have the confidence, knowledge and support to stay there.”

Amanda says her own experience has changed the way she thinks about weight loss.

“Life doesn’t stop while you’re losing weight. There are birthdays, holidays, meals out, difficult weeks and times when motivation isn’t there.

“That’s when having somewhere you feel understood and supported can make such a difference.”

Supporting people using weight-loss medication

Amanda also wants her group to be a welcoming and supportive place for people who are taking prescribed weight-loss medication.

Slimming World has developed a dedicated Weight Loss Medication Hub within its app, providing additional support and information for members using weight-loss medication.

For Amanda, this support is about recognising that weight loss is not simply about the number on the scales.

“People are approaching weight loss in different ways, and I want everyone who comes through my door to feel supported,” she said.

“For members who are taking weight-loss medication, the support we offer can help them focus on the essential lifestyle and mindset changes alongside their weight-loss journey.

“My aim is to help people build habits and confidence that can support them in the longer term, rather than feeling that weight loss is simply about losing pounds.”

Amanda is also keen to reassure people that everyone’s journey will look different.

“I’m not asking people to do something I haven’t done myself. I’ve stood where they are standing, and I know how amazing it feels to reach a target that once seemed so far away.

“Whether someone wants to lose half a stone or make a much bigger change, I want them to feel that they have somewhere they can come, without judgement, and believe that they can do it.”

Amanda’s own before-and-after photographs are now an important part of sharing her story with people considering starting their own journey.

She is also keen to highlight the Wyre NHS Slimming World on Referral scheme, which may mean eligible people in the area can access 12 weeks of support for free  through the scheme.

Now Amanda hopes to build a welcoming community in Poulton where members can support one another while working towards their own individual goals.

“My ultimate goal isn’t just ‘lose weight’. It’s to help people reach their target, stay there and enjoy beautiful food and life along the way.”

Amanda’s Slimming World group meets at Poulton Community Hall every Tuesday at 9.30am and 11am.