RENEW
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Real-world Exploration of digital iNnovation managing Excess Weight
IRAS ID
351778
Contact name
Andrew Walker
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 2 months, 31 days
Research summary
Obesity is a major health concern in the UK, contributing to illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and mental health struggles. It also places a significant financial burden on the NHS. Despite existing treatments, weight-management programs, medications, and surgery many patients face barriers to access, creating health inequalities based on location and income. Digital health interventions, like Roczen, could make expert care more accessible. This study will assess whether Roczen improves health outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and access to obesity care. If successful, it could provide a scalable solution to help individuals manage their weight while easing NHS pressures.
The study will include patients who are referred to the South east London Tier 3 weight management service and accepted into the Tier 3 service at GSTT. The main study is made up of 2 groups. The first group (Group A) will look at whether offering 12 months of Roczen to patients while they are waiting to begin Tier 3 services is beneficial and cost-effective compared to standard Tier 3 weight management care. The second group (Group B) looks at whether offering 12 months of Roczen to patients completing Tier 3 care services is beneficial and cost-effective compared to patients who are discharged back to usual standard of care with their GP. Each group will be comprised of 290 patients who complete 12 months (Roczen users or Tier 3 service / standard of care users). Data will be collected at baseline, six, and 12 months timepoints. The study also includes a sub-study that explores the acceptability and feasibility of NHS adoption of Roczen into Tier3 weight management services. The sub-study will be comprised of 84 patients and 20 staff to be interviewed to understand the perspectives of both Roczen users and Tier 3 patients and staff.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/EE/0191
Date of REC Opinion
30 Oct 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion