Information for
friends, family and carers

If you are worried about someone’s weight, it’s normal to feel unsure about how to bring it up with them. Some people may not see their weight as a problem or feel ready to talk about it. That’s okay – the most important thing is to be there when they feel ready. Here are some gentle ways to help you start talking about weight with them:

• Choose the right time and place – find a quiet, private moment when you both feel calm and not rushed
• Be kind and supportive – focus on how they feel, not how they look. You could try asking, “How do you feel about your health at the moment?”
• Avoid blame or assumptions – try not to suggest that weight is the problem or that they need to 'fix it’. Focus on listening with care and let them talk when they’re ready. A simple “How are you feeling?” can go a long way
• Offer help and support – let them know you are there for them. That could mean offering to go to an appointment with them, helping with meals or just being someone they can talk to. You could ask, “Is there anything more I could do to help you? Or anything you would like me to stop doing?”
• Celebrate progress together – this could be trying a new recipe, feeling more confident or reaching a milestone. Why not try saying “Let’s break your goal into smaller steps so we can celebrate achievements along the way.”