AN ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE mum say she has found a new lease of life after shedding more than two and a half stone in just a few months with the support of her local Slimming World group.
And Amy Harrison is not looking back.
She finally joined Jane Sigley’s group at Guide Bridge Theatre in Audenshaw on January 4, 2025, after months of putting it off because of a busy social calendar and fears of how it might impact her weight loss journey.
This was not her first experience with the popular weight loss plan. She first joined Slimming World back in 2017 – not because of body image concerns but because of a more personal struggle.
“I did it then because I was struggling to conceive,” Amy explained. “Every time I fell pregnant, I miscarried. The furthest I got was just weeks.”
Doctors advised Amy that weight loss could improve her chances of carrying full-term.
Although she wore a size 12 and did not see herself as overweight, but she decided to give Slimming World a try – and it worked.
She lost 21 pounds, conceived successfully and never looked back… until now.
Life with two children under two-years-old meant Amy’s focus shifted entirely.
“I was constantly snacking, living their routine and never putting myself first,” she added. It wasn’t until she saw a video of herself singing karaoke at her sister’s birthday party that things changed.
“It was the lightbulb moment. I was embarrassed by how I looked and knew I had to do something.”
That “something” was returning to Slimming World – and since January, Amy has already lost more than two stone. But for her, the journey is not just about the scales.
She said: “I’ve dropped two dress sizes. My clothes drown me now – I used to hide in baggy clothes.
“Now I actually enjoy getting dressed again.”
Founded in 1969, Slimming World’s approach is built around “Food Optimising” – a flexible eating plan that does not restrict favourite meals but encourages healthier swaps and sensible portions, paired with weekly group support and motivational tools.
For Amy, the freedom and balance it offers have been key.
“It doesn’t feel like a diet,” she told The Correspondent. “You’re not starving or cutting everything out. You can still have chocolate, even pick n mix at the cinema – just in moderation, and it still works.”
She also credits much of her success to the welcoming environment created by her consultant Jane and the supportive group culture.
Cooking Slimming World-friendly meals has reignited her love for being in the kitchen and she has picked up countless tips and recipes from fellow members.
“Jane explains things so well and makes you feel good about your choices, even when you’ve had a tough week,” she proclaimed.
“You never want to leave after weigh-in because the group just lifts you up,
“It’s the support that makes the difference. It’s not just about losing weight – it’s about feeling like yourself again.”
To find out more about Slimming World or to locate your nearest group, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk