Health Matters:Help to fight flab without surgery

The free service, called Weigh Ahead will provide an alternative to the more drastic measure of surgery. Through an intensive 12-week weight management programme, it will help people make long- lasting changes to their lifestyle.

The programme delivered by experienced, qualified health professionals from Sheffield Primary Care Trust provides personalised support tailored to each individual. Friendly, personal or group sessions can be arranged with dietitians, physiotherapists and a psychologist, to help people make far-reaching change.

A personal guide maintains weekly contact and a dedicated website also provides an opportunity to share problems, advice and experiences with other people. Anyone who has a BMI of over 40, or 35 with other health conditions and thinks that they may benefit from the Weigh Ahead programme should speak to their doctor or health professional to arrange an appointment.

Free advice on ending stress

National Stress Awareness Day (NSAD) is being held this year on Wednesday, November 3 and will encourage people to "Start Living – Stop Stressing". Annually organised by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA), NSAD is in its 12th year of increasing public awareness and drawing attention to the issue of stress. This year specially trained stress advisers will be available to public, private and voluntary organisations throughout the UK providing free stress workshops and stress prevention techniques.

Stress levels have doubled in the last four years and only recently have companies begun to address this issue. ISMA and the Health and Safety Executive define stress as "the adverse reaction people have to too much pressure". NSAD was created to increase awareness of stress and the health problems that result from it, and most importantly to help and inform individuals who may be experiencing stress to seek guidance.

ISMA are hosting two live webcasts for those unable to attend an adviser or event.

The topics will be: Stress in Management and Business and How to Manage Stress in your Private Life and will be accessible anywhere where there is a phone and computer.