Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs: How Can I Get Them In The UK

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about “Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs” and how they work in the UK. We’ll break down what the term means, why the UK Government is thinking of introducing weight loss jabs for unemployed people and what the goals of this trial are, 

We will cover the potential benefits of these injections for the economy, as well as the criticism the plan has faced. We’ll also answer other frequently asked questions, such as whether you may be eligible for this scheme and what it could mean for you.

Weight loss jabs are becoming increasingly popular, with options like Mounjaro, Wegovy and Saxenda providing thousands of people with a tool to help their weight loss. These medications are available to buy online from UK Meds, provided you fit the criteria. To buy these medications you typically need to have an obese BMI (between 30 and 39.9), or an overweight BMI (between 25 and 29.9) alongside a weight-related health condition.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about unemployment and weight loss jabs:

• The UK government’s "Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs" initiative is a five-year trial in Greater Manchester designed to test whether the weight-loss drug Mounjaro can help unemployed people who are obese lose weight, improve health and get back to work.

• By supporting unemployed people to be healthier and back to work, the trial aims to boost the UK economy by reducing unemployment and increasing productivity.

• Participants must have a BMI of 30 or higher (classified as obese) or a BMI between 25–29.9 with a related health condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.

• Critics argue that the plan stigmatises unemployed people by linking their job status to weight loss and oversimplifies the barriers to employment, such as mental health issues and limited job opportunities. 

• Due to the limited reach and the trial’s five-year duration, waiting times are expected to be long and the program may take years to expand nationwide if successful.

What does the phrase 'Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs' mean?

The phrase "Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs" refers to an idea proposed by the UK Government that involves a five-year trial in Greater Manchester to test the effectiveness of the weight-loss drug Mounjaro. The aim is to explore whether providing this treatment to unemployed people can support them in losing weight, improving their overall health and helping them return to work. The trial also aims to reduce obesity-related health issues, which are a major strain on the NHS in England.

Why is the UK Government offering unemployed people weight loss jabs?

The aim of the UK government initiative to provide unemployed people with weight loss medications is to explore whether the weight-loss drug Mounjaro can help unemployed people who are obese lose weight and improve their overall health, which could make it easier for them to return to work.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle the rising costs associated with obesity-related illnesses, which currently place a heavy strain on the NHS, costing billions annually. 

By targeting both health and employment, the trial aims to prevent diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, whilst also benefiting the economy. 

Media Coverage

Television show, Good Morning Britain, had a recent debate around the UK Government trial to offer overweight people in the UK weight-loss drugs to help them get back to work. Watch the discussion below:

What's happening?

The trial is a collaboration between the UK government and pharmaceutical company Lilly aimed at testing the effectiveness of the weight loss drug tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro, for unemployed people with obesity. Taking place over five years in Greater Manchester, the trial will focus on the impact of the drug on weight loss as well as how health services can be used for people struggling with obesity.

What is the aim of the trial?

The aim of the trial is to determine whether weight loss jabs, specifically the medication Mounjaro (which contains tirzepatide) can help people to lose weight and improve their overall health, which may help get them back into work. The government believes that by addressing obesity-related illnesses, which are linked to higher rates of sickness and longer periods off work, the trial could reduce the financial strain on the NHS.

How could offering weight loss jabs to eligible unemployed people benefit the UK economy?

Offering weight loss jabs to eligible unemployed people could benefit the UK economy in several ways. By helping individuals lose weight and improve their health, the jabs could increase their chances of returning to work. This would not only reduce unemployment but also boost productivity as more people are able to re-enter the workforce. Reduced levels of unemployment and a boost to overall productivity would significantly benefit the economy of the UK.

As well as the general benefits to employees and employers, addressing obesity-related illnesses could also reduce the strain on the NHS. This would help save money that could be used to fund other services. 

What criticism has the plan faced?

The plan has faced criticism for stigmatising unemployed people, with some arguing that it unfairly targets people based on their weight and job status rather than addressing their broader health needs. Some people have also pointed out that weight loss medications alone are unlikely to help people get back to work, as other issues such as mental health challenges, lack of skills, or limited job options may also impact them more. 

Am I eligible for unemployed weight loss jabs?

To be eligible for unemployed weight loss jabs, you would need to meet certain criteria. This includes being classified as obese, which is determined by having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30 and having a pre-existing weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular issues. 

It is important to note that the trial is only taking part in the Greater Manchester area, so participants may be limited to this pool. If you think you might qualify, it’s best to consult your GP or check with local health services participating in the trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a prescription for them?

Yes, you would need a prescription to use weight loss jabs as the drug being used in the trial, tirzepatide (Mounjaro), is a prescription only medication. Usually you will need to have a prescription from a registered healthcare provider to use Mounjaro, with the decision to prescribe being made using a number of factors including health conditions and BMI. If you're part of the trial, the prescription process may be different and tied into the programme itself [1].

If you are not part of the trial then you can get a free private prescription for Mounjaro, as well as other weight loss medications like Wegovy and Saxenda online from UK Meds. You will need to complete our online consultation that will be checked by an independent registered prescriber. They will decide whether or not to provide you with a free private prescription. If approved, your order will be delivered to you.

Can I access a prescription for weight loss injections from my GP?

Accessing a prescription for weight loss injections through your GP typically requires a referral to a specialist NHS weight management service. If you meet the eligibility criteria such as having severe obesity and a related health condition like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, you could potentially be prescribed medications like Wegovy or Mounjaro. It is easier, however, to access these medications using a private healthcare service like UK Meds. NHS services and GPs are currently not using weight loss injections as front line treatments for weight loss. Typically these services would tell you to eat better and get more exercise before prescribing a weight loss jab. 

It should be noted that weight loss injections do also require regular exercise and a healthy balanced diet to provide the best results.

What are the eligibility criteria?

The eligibility criteria for weight loss jabs are quite straight forward. To use a weight loss medication you typically need to be classified as obese, which is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above. You can also use weight loss medications if you are classified as being overweight (having a BMI between 25 and 29.9) and you also have a weight related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.

Will there be long waiting times to access unemployed weight loss jabs on the NHS?

Yes, it’s likely there will be long waiting times to access unemployed weight loss jabs on the NHS. The trial is not nationwide and is not going to count for all unemployed, obese people. The trial is taking place over a period of five years which means it is unlikely to be rolled out before the end of this time. If the trial is a success and the medications are rolled out nationwide, there may be a high demand which could impact waiting times to access them [2].

Final Thoughts

The concept of “Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs” is an initiative by the UK government to address obesity among unemployed people as part of a larger effort to improve public health and boost productivity. While the trial in Greater Manchester aims to explore how weight loss medications can support individuals in losing weight and returning to work, it has also faced criticism for potentially stigmatising unemployed people and oversimplifying the challenges they face. 

For those considering this option, eligibility is based on specific health criteria and accessing treatment may require patience due to limited availability and long waiting times.

Sources

[1] Weight loss jabs for unemployed not dystopian, says Wes Streeting - BBC News

[2] Unemployed Weight Loss Jabs: How Can I Get Them In The UK - Google

Further Reading

Obesity: Unemployed could get weight loss jabs to return to work - BBC News