Obesity is one of the most pressing public health challenges in the UK, affecting millions of people across all age groups. It can have serious physical, psychological, and social consequences, but with the right knowledge and support, obesity can be prevented and managed effectively.

This free Obesity Awareness online course provides learners with an understanding of the causes, risks, and impacts of obesity, as well as the practical strategies used to support individuals in making healthier choices.

You’ll explore the science behind obesity, current public health initiatives, and evidence-based interventions that promote healthy living.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

Obesity affects not only individuals’ health but also their emotional wellbeing, relationships, and quality of life. For health and social care workers, understanding obesity is essential for delivering compassionate, person-centred support that promotes both physical and mental health.

Here’s why this course is important:

• Understand the bigger picture: Learn how obesity develops and its impact on individuals and society.
• Build confidence in supporting others: Gain skills to communicate sensitively and effectively about weight and health.
• Promote prevention and wellbeing: Discover how lifestyle, behaviour, and environment contribute to obesity — and how small changes can make a big difference.
• Support UK public health goals: Learn how your role aligns with national efforts to reduce obesity and promote healthier communities.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define obesity and explain how it is classified.
• Understand the prevalence of obesity in the UK and its implications for public health.
• Describe the physical, psychological, and social effects of obesity.
• Identify the physiological, psychological, and environmental causes of obesity.
• Recognise the impact of obesity on conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and depression.
• Apply knowledge of lifestyle and behavioural interventions, including healthy diet, physical activity, and stress management.
• Understand the role of communication and emotional support in helping individuals manage weight sensitively.
• Explain key UK public health policies and initiatives tackling obesity.
• Explore case studies and evidence-based approaches to support long-term weight management and wellbeing.

Obesity Awareness Training Course Outline

Module 1: Understanding Obesity
Learners will explore what obesity is, how it is defined and classified using measures such as Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference. The module also examines the prevalence of obesity across the UK and its growing public health implications. Learners will gain insight into the physical, psychological, and social consequences of obesity, helping them understand why prevention and management are vital in health and social care.

Module 2: Understanding the Causes
This module examines the multifactorial causes of obesity. Learners will explore physiological contributors such as genetics, metabolism, and hormonal imbalances, as well as psychological factors including emotional eating, stress, and low mood. Social and environmental influences—such as lifestyle habits, marketing, and socioeconomic status—will also be discussed to highlight how obesity develops in different contexts.

Module 3: The Impact of Obesity
Learners will understand the broad impact of obesity on health and society. The module covers the physical consequences, including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and joint problems, alongside the psychological effects of low self-esteem, depression, and stigma. It also explores the economic burden on the NHS and the wider community, reinforcing why obesity is both a personal and societal challenge.

Module 4: Prevention and Management
This module focuses on effective strategies for preventing and managing obesity. Learners will explore lifestyle interventions such as balanced diet plans, increased physical activity, and behaviour modification techniques. Medical and pharmacological treatments, including weight management programmes and bariatric surgery, will also be reviewed in line with NICE guidance.

Module 5: Support and Communication
Learners will develop skills to support individuals who are managing their weight. The module explores how to approach sensitive conversations with empathy and respect, avoiding stigma and blame. Learners will also examine how to promote motivation, encourage healthy behaviour change, and offer emotional support for individuals experiencing challenges linked to obesity.

Module 6: Policy and Education
This module introduces key UK public health initiatives tackling obesity, such as Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives and NHS Better Health. Learners will examine the role of education in prevention, focusing on school food standards, workplace wellbeing schemes, and physical activity promotion. The module also covers community-based interventions and the importance of family-centred approaches to health improvement.

Module 7: Case Studies and Evidence-Based Learning
Learners will apply theory to practice through real-life case studies of individuals and communities addressing obesity. The module explores different weight management approaches, compares their effectiveness, and evaluates outcomes using evidence-based research. Learners will reflect on how these lessons can be used to improve care practice and promote healthier lifestyles.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• Health and social care workers
• Community support workers and wellbeing practitioners
• Nutrition and lifestyle support staff
• Volunteers, carers, and anyone promoting healthy living

No prior experience is required — this is an introductory course suitable for anyone working in health, social care, or community settings.

FAQ

How long does the course take?
Most learners complete it in 1–2 hours, depending on their pace.

Is this course accredited?
Our courses are in the process of gaining CPD accreditation. Certificates will include CPD hours once approved.

Do I need previous training?
No prior knowledge is required. The course is suitable for all learners, including new staff completing induction training.

Is the content relevant to UK health and social care?
Yes — this course aligns with NHS, NICE, and Public Health England obesity strategies and frameworks

Raising awareness about obesity helps promote early intervention, reduces stigma, and supports people to make informed, positive lifestyle choices. For professionals in health and social care, understanding obesity means being able to deliver compassionate, evidence-based support that empowers individuals to take control of their wellbeing.

Enrol on the Obesity Awareness Training Course today

Gain the knowledge, confidence, and understanding to support individuals in making healthier choices and promoting wellbeing across communities.