Chamber and committees

We are taking forward a range of actions across five key outcomes set out in our 2018 Diet and Healthy Weight Delivery Plan:

• giving children the best start in life;
• creating a healthier food environment;
• better access to weight management services;
• leadership;
• reducing health inequalities.

The Delivery Plan is at https://www.gov.scot/publications/healthier-future-scotlands-diet-healthy-weight-delivery-plan/

Supporting the maintenance of long-term weight loss demands action to transform the food environment - that is the environment that influences what we buy and eat - to support healthier choices as well as reduce the excessive consumption of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt. We have set out in our Delivery Plan how we will achieve this.

In addition to preventative actions, the delivery plan also recognises the need for targeted and tailored support for adults in Scotland to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This includes a commitment to working with Public Health Scotland and partners to develop evidence-informed, cost-effective minimum standards and pathways for weight management programmes.

In 2018 we published the Framework for the Prevention, Early Detection and Early Intervention of Type 2 Diabetes, as part of the Delivery Plan, which recognises the link between weight and Type 2 Diabetes. The Framework is at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/healthier-future-framework-prevention-early-detection-early-intervention-type-2/

Public Health Scotland published Core Standards for the delivery of tier 2 (targeted lifestyle interventions usually delivered in groups) and tier 3 (specialist services for more complex cases) Healthy Weight Management in 2019. The Core Standards provide a comprehensive framework for evidence-based and consistent delivery, with key aims to ensure a fair and equal approach to treatment across Scotland. Included is a requirement that NHS Boards should offer weight maintenance as a key component within a 1-year programme, to all participants, to ensure ongoing support following the active intervention phase. Depending on the duration and type of active intervention as well as the needs of the individual, follow-up intervals should be at 1- to 3-monthly – e.g. at 3, 6 and 9 months post active intervention. In some circumstances, for example for total diet replacement, follow-up may be required for up to 2 years. The Core Standards are at http://www.healthscotland.scot/publications/standards-for-the-delivery-of-tier-2-and-tier-3-weight-management-services-in-scotland.