Slimming World returns to Somerstown after seven years

A brand-new Slimming World group is set to launch in Somerstown this September, bringing fresh support, friendship and Food Optimising back to the local community after a seven-year absence.
Local Consultant Lou Rodgers will open the new Saturday morning group at Hope Church, Somers Road, on Saturday 5th September 2026 at 7.30am, giving local residents a new opportunity to begin their weight-loss journey with the support of a welcoming community.
For Lou, the launch is especially meaningful. Having spent part of her childhood growing up in Somerstown, she is delighted to be returning to an area that holds many happy memories.
“I’ve always had a real connection with Somerstown,” says Lou. “To be able to bring Slimming World back to the community after seven years and help local people achieve their dreams is incredibly exciting.”
Lou already runs a successful Slimming World group in Southsea, where members have achieved an incredible 111st 9½lb of weight loss so far this year. However, she understands better than most that losing weight isn’t always straightforward.
Having lost an amazing 4st herself, Lou recently celebrated two years as a Slimming World Target Member. She believes her own experience helps her understand the challenges many people face.
“I know what it’s like to struggle with your weight because I’ve been there myself,” she says. “Joining Slimming World was one of the best decisions I ever made. It completely changed my relationship with food and gave me the confidence to enjoy life again.”
As a carer for both her husband and her mother-in-law, Lou also knows how difficult it can be to prioritise healthy eating when life is busy. She says one of the reasons Slimming World has worked so well for her is because Food Optimising fits around real life.
“I love that I don’t have to cook separate meals or spend hours in the kitchen. I love food, I love baking, and I love that I don’t have to miss out. There are so many Free Foods and so many ways to enjoy family favourites, delicious meals and even amazing fakeaways.”
Lou also follows a strict gluten-free diet and says Slimming World has shown her that healthy eating can be flexible enough to suit different dietary needs.
“There really is something for everyone,” she explains. “Whether you’re gluten-free, feeding a busy family or simply looking for healthier choices, Food Optimising can be adapted to fit your lifestyle.”
For those days when cooking from scratch isn’t possible, Lou says Slimming World Kitchen and the range of Slimming World meals offer convenient options without compromising on healthy eating.
More than anything, Lou is passionate about creating a warm and supportive group where members feel welcomed, encouraged and never judged.
“Losing weight is about so much more than the number on the scales,” she says. “It’s about building confidence, making friendships and having people around you who genuinely understand. That’s what makes our groups so special.”
Alongside supporting new members, Lou is also encouraging anyone who has ever thought about becoming a Slimming World Consultant to find out more about joining the Portsmouth team.
“It’s such a rewarding role,” she says. “If you’ve benefited from Slimming World yourself and love helping others, becoming a Consultant could genuinely change your life too.”
The new Somerstown Slimming World group launches on Saturday 5th September 2026 at 7.30am at Hope Church, Somers Road.
For more information or to book a place, contact Lou on 07587 174802.

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