'I've been a Leeds Slimming World consultant for 15 years - and it's changed my life'

A Leeds woman celebrating 15 years as a Slimming World consultant has spoken about the “life-changing” impact of helping hundreds of people transform their health and confidence.

Caroline Sykes has been running a Slimming World group at Rothwell Baptist Church every Thursday morning since becoming a consultant in 2011.

Over the past 15 years, she has supported hundreds of members with their weight-loss journeys and says she has seen friendships formed, confidence rebuilt and lives changed along the way.

Caroline, who recently received a Diamond Award for her commitment to supporting others, said she never expected becoming a consultant to have such an impact on her own life.

“When I first joined Slimming World, I never imagined how much it would change my life,” she said.

“Over the years, I've watched people walk through our doors feeling nervous, lacking confidence and believing they could never succeed, only to leave lighter, healthier, happier and smiling again.

“I've seen friendships formed, confidence rebuilt and lives completely transformed. Being part of those journeys is something I never take for granted.”

Caroline said the role is about much more than helping people lose weight.

“It's about people,” she said. “It's about listening, supporting, encouraging and believing in someone until they can believe in themselves again.

“Even after 15 years, I still feel emotional when members achieve things they once thought were impossible.

“Watching someone improve their health, regain their confidence and realise their own potential is one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.”

She said becoming a consultant had also given her greater flexibility around her family, lifelong friendships and a career she feels passionate about.

“It gave me flexibility around my family, friendships for life, personal confidence and a career filled with purpose,” Caroline said.

“I've laughed, cried, celebrated and grown alongside my members and fellow Consultants, and I genuinely feel part of something very special.”

Now she is encouraging current and former Slimming World members across West Yorkshire to consider becoming consultants themselves.

Caroline said there was a need for more people to offer support to those wanting to lose weight and improve their health.

“To reach more of those people, we need more consultants,” she said.

“That's why I'm looking to speak to members who have experienced the power of Slimming World for themselves and might be interested in helping others achieve the same success.”

She said people considering the role should not be put off if they feel they lack experience or confidence.

“Many people think they wouldn't be confident enough or don't have the right skills, but I felt exactly the same when I started,” Caroline added.

“What matters most is caring about people, enjoying encouraging others and wanting to make a difference in your local community.

“Looking back, it all started with one small step. I simply said yes to an opportunity that I never expected would become such an important part of my life.

“Fifteen years later, I can honestly say it's one of the best decisions I've ever made.”

Caroline is now inviting current and former Slimming World members to attend one of the organisation's Opportunity Events.

The informal events give people the chance to hear from existing consultants and find out more about the role, including the training, support and flexibility available.

Those interested can register their details through Slimming World's consultant enquiry page, with a member of the team then contacting them about upcoming events in their area.