Dr Stuart Flint was a JRP Supervisor in 2014-15, researching obesity discrimination in the workplace. He has remained committed to this topic and has received widespread attention for its impact, including considerable coverage in British media such as the BBC, ITV, and the Sunday Times. His work has also been a point of interest in policy-related debates.

Earlier this year, Stuart gave an address in the British Parliament on weight stigma and discrimination. His address was part of the All Party Parliamentary Group’s (APPG) wider focus on tackling issues related to obesity. Afterwards, Stuart helped the APPG produce a report focusing on weight stigma and discrimination in the context of employment and healthcare setting. Stuart’s work at the JRP was mentioned in this report.

The report outlines some key insights, highlighting that 88% of people with obesity reporting having been stigmatised, with 42% of people with obesity not feeling comfortable enough to talk to their GP about obesity. The report proposes that a national strategy for both adult and childhood obesity should be developed and implemented by the government, and that weight management training should be introduced into medical school syllabuses. The report has been covered in online media, radio and print, including the BBC.

Last month, The House of Commons Health Committee released a report on Child obesity, that mentioned Stuart’s work. His work has, and continues to shape UK policy.