SHINE is a community-based weight management programme that helps people aged 8 – 18 lose weight and grow in self-esteem and confidence.

The SHINE course involves the whole family so parents/guardians receive support and training in one room whilst the children are attending sessions in the room next door.

SHINE supports young people with a learning disability/autism to understand what can cause them to gain unwanted weight, and empowers them to manage it effectively ad independently. SHINE doesn’t just focus on food and eating but promotes a complete change in attitude towards health and making sustainable lifestyle change.

The SHINE programme incorporates the three interventions advocated by all obesity guidelines: nutritional therapy, physical activity, and behavioural modification – which includes psychological therapies to address anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and confidence, body image and bullying.

The course aims to develop emotional literacy and social skills in order to help young people explore any psychological issues or potential underlying causes of obesity.

Sheffield Mencap and Gateway’s SHINE team worked with the Shine Health Academy to adapt its original programme that is delivered to children in mainstream schools, making it suitable for those with learning disabilities and  autism. All of our tutors have completed extensive training with The Shine Health Academy.

• Delivery dates: Thursday evenings. The course runs for 16 consecutive weeks in term-time.
• Time: 5pm – 6:30pm.
• Venue: Norfolk Lodge, Park Grange Road, Sheffield S2 3QF.
• Cost: Free
• Session Structure: Classroom sessions, cookery sessions and a celebration bowling session.
• Suitability: For children aged between 8 – 18 with a BMI of 25 or over. We are unable to provide 1-2-1 support or administer medication during this session. If your child requires this, or may need support with personal care, we ask that a parent/carer remains on site for the duration of the session.

To find out more about SHINE or book a place on the next course, please contact us.

Here are some videos and resources to support you whilst at home. Find out about the Zimbabwe Hand Jive and how it can help you to eat healthily in this guide and in the video below:

Egg-Fried Rice Recipe

Make your own delicious egg fried rice with this recipe from Briget.

Shine Health Academy Recipe Booklet

Discover lots of delicious recipes in this booklet from the Shine Health Academy