Testimonials from PCTs
‘Wiltshire PCT commissioned the Counterweight programme for GP practices in the south locality of the PCT in late 2006. Counterweight was selected by the PCT as its preferred weight management programme for primary care because of its significant supporting evidence base. Our allocated Weight Management Adviser (Counterweight Specialist) (Mrs. Felicity Lyons) began working with the PCT in February 2007. This arrangement continued for 12 months. Working closely with me, as the Counterweight ‘Buddy’ Dietitian (NHS Counterweight Clinician), she was able to successfully implement the programme in 9 practices across the locality. This included: introducing practice teams to Counterweight through whole practice meetings, training 18 individual members of practice staff in the delivery of Counterweight and mentoring staff while their proficiency in programme delivery developed. Working closely with the Counterweight Specialist enabled me to become sufficiently confident in Counterweight to be able to continue to roll out the programme to further practices when they decided to join the scheme. The partnership approach between PCT and Counterweight ensured sustainability of the programme once the 12 month initiation phase was complete. The PCT has plans to roll out Counterweight across the whole of the area very soon’
Kathryn Thomas BSc RD, Community Dietitian: Public Health
‘I can confirm Derby City PCT has worked with Counterweight for a period of twelve months, and that the programme has been implemented successfully and is now being managed by the NHS Counterweight Clinician’
Christine Buttery, Specialist Dietiitian, Community Nutrition & Dietetic Service