2025 - A Year in Review
As 2025 draws to a close, it feels like the perfect moment to pause, reflect and smile at just how much this year has held — for me, for my groups, and for the very special Slimming World community we’ve built together at Castlereagh đ
Food, Food… and More Food! đŊī¸
2025 was an exciting year for food lovers, with lots of brilliant new products landing in the Slimming World at Iceland range. The wraps in particular have been an absolute game-changer — versatile, tasty and used in just about every possible way in my kitchen đ
We also welcomed a hugely successful new Hi-Fi bar this year, with another brand-new one already on the way for 2026 đ⨠And there’s even more to look forward to as Slimming World continues to expand the range next year.
Gold Group Glory đ
Without a doubt, the highlight of my year was taking my groups to Gold Group status — such an incredible accolade and a true reflection of the commitment, kindness and determination of my members đ
This achievement brought celebrations galore, from official recognition at Head Office to a massive party in group.
The biggest celebration of all was attending the Slimming World Oscars in Birmingham đŦ⨠Standing on stage, dressed up and absolutely chuffed to bits, is a moment I’ll treasure forever (and yes… the celebrations were wild đ).
I’m incredibly lucky in my Slimming World family to have the constant support of my District Manager, Sharon, who encourages, motivates and supports me every step of the way. We’ve built a strong working relationship rooted in trust and kindness, which makes all the difference.
I’ve also been lucky to share many of these celebrations with Ashleigh and Jo from the East Belfast team — thank you both for the laughs, the ideas and the support. We genuinely hold each other together and keep each other going â¤ī¸
Community at the Heart of Everything đ¤đ
At the very heart of everything I do is community, and what we have at Castlereagh is something truly special. From the moment members walk through the door, it’s about so much more than weight loss — it’s about belonging.
Our group is a warm, welcoming space — literally and figuratively. From a cosy warm room with music playing, to fabulous bean-to-cup coffee â, a comfortable environment and welcoming smiles, it all helps create a place where people want to be. Over time, real friendships are formed, support flows naturally, and members lift each other up week after week.
That sense of community is what makes the magic happen. When people feel safe, supported and understood, confidence grows — and with it, successful and sustainable weight loss. Castlereagh isn’t just a Slimming World group… it’s a community, and I couldn’t be prouder of it đ
The Countdown That Broke Records âąī¸đ
This year’s 12-Week Countdown was the most successful we’ve ever had — and for good reason! Members signing up didn’t just get one… or two… but three cookbooks completely free đ¤¯đđđ
The buzz, commitment and results that came from that countdown were simply phenomenal.
A Year of Sadness and Strength đđ
The saddest moment of 2025 was the sudden passing of Margaret Miles-Bramwell, an extraordinary woman whose vision changed millions of lives. Everything we do is rooted in her values, her belief in people, and her understanding that kindness and support create lasting change.
Margaret, you are deeply missed and never forgotten đ
Alongside this, we sadly lost some members during the year, and others faced illness and difficult times. These moments are never easy, but once again our community showed its strength — holding one another up, offering comfort and reminding us that no one ever stands alone. To those still unwell, you are always in my thoughts — get well soon đ
A New Group Experience đ¤â¨
One of the biggest changes this year came from Margaret’s recommendations, and it has been incredibly successful.
Our groups now focus on a shared group experience, rather than individual spotlights. Members can join in as much or as little as they like — no pressure, no judgement. The atmosphere is uplifting, inclusive and empowering, and the weight losses truly speak for themselves đĒâ
Celebrating Every Win đ
From Man of the Year and Woman of the Year to countless members reaching their ultimate goal — Target weight — 2025 was packed with celebrations. Every journey mattered, every success was cheered, and every milestone was recognised đâ¨
Growing, Learning and Giving Back đąđ
On a personal note, I’ve loved spending time in my greenhouse this year, growing Slimming World Free Foods like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and herbs. There’s something very grounding (and tasty đ) about growing your own.
I also enjoyed a very special visit to Head Office for my annual two-day training. This time is vital to me — ensuring I’m always learning, evolving and delivering the very best service to my members.
Excitement is already building for the new 2026 Slimming World member book, with fabulous enhancements and changes to our plan. Big things are coming… watch this space đâ¨
Gratitude From the Heart đ
Helping people lose weight is a privilege, but running a successful business also matters deeply to me — and that simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible members who walk through the doors each week.
A very special thank-you goes to my social team — you honestly don’t realise just how special you are. You run the group with precision every single week and you are the foundation of the warm, supportive family atmosphere that defines our groups.
A December to Remember đ
We ended the year in true style with a gorgeous December — our first ever craft fair, a wonderful group Christmas party, and an unforgettable evening celebration where over 90 members danced the night away đđē
Even better, together we raised £500 for Stroke Association NI, bringing our total donations to over £2,500 — an incredible achievement and something we can all be proud of â¤ī¸
Thank You, 2025 đ
2025 was a year of growth, joy, reflection, laughter and community. I couldn’t be prouder of my groups, my members and the supportive, welcoming Slimming World family we’ve built together at Castlereagh.
Here’s to everything we achieved — and to an even more exciting 2026 ahead đĨâ¨
