| Sumario: | The Nutrition Strategy for Wales, Food and Well Being, has identified nine recommendations to bring about improvements in the nutrition of the people of Wales, including one specifically on obesity. The aim of this study was to scope current activities in weight management by health professionals in Wales, and to explore possibilities for future effective working. Qualitative data were collated via six focus group interviews, based on semi-structured questions. These were conducted with five groups of health professionals in six separate areas of Wales, during a 1-month period in 2003. In total, 58 health professionals were interviewed in uni-professional focus groups. The analysis was based on grounded theory methodology using transcribed data from audio-tape recordings, which were coded and categorised manually, and emergent themes identified. Four major themes emerged from the focus groups, each having two sub-themes, and it is clear from the scoping work that current weight management practice varies across Wales, within and between professions, and in general with little sharing of information. All those interviewed were involved in weight management to some degree, but there was little consistency of approach and in general, no one professional group felt they were leaders in the field, with frustration emerging that no one profession is showing the way. Tackling obesity and overweight has to become a greater public health priority and thus from the findings, practical recommendations are made for Wales.
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