Feeling happier and healthier- Ruth’s story

Before joining Healthier You, Ruth was unaware just how high her diabetes risk indicators were. She did not initially realise the significance of her blood results or what they meant for her long‑term health.

“When I found out more about my diabetes numbers, it was a bit of a shock. I hadn’t realised how high they were, and it made me think more seriously about my health. That’s when I decided to take part in Healthier You: the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.”

The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is a free programme designed to help people at risk of Type 2 diabetes make lasting lifestyle changes. Through group sessions, expert guidance, and practical tools, participants learn how to improve their diet, increase physical activity, and manage weight. The programme empowers individuals to take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing diabetes in a supportive and informative environment.

“Since starting the programme, I’ve become much more aware of what I eat and how it affects my body. I now check food labels more carefully, make healthier choices, and exercise more than I did before. I’ve learnt which foods are good for me and which ones I need to cut down on or avoid altogether.”

“I’ve seen some positive results already. I’ve lost a small amount of weight, but more importantly, I now have a wider understanding of how my body works. Having this knowledge has helped me feel more confident about making better choices and managing my health day to day.”

“Taking part in the programme has made a real difference to my mindset. It’s encouraged me to take better care of myself and helped me believe that I can achieve goals — even if they’re small ones. The knowledge and confidence I’ve gained will stay with me going forward.”