We did it! We managed to reach our target of 1000 signatures before the start of business today. Thank you to all of you who got us there! But we still have a way to go. If we get 10 times as many signatures, we can force a debate with the local MP. If we get 100 times as many signatures we can force a debate in parliament. Wouldn't that be amazing?

Just over a quarter of you shared this petition on your social media channels which definitely helped. In my experience, getting a personalised message from someone I know is much more effective than seeing something on twitter so if you haven't already done so, please will you consider sharing this petition with friends and family so that we can continue to raise awareness and bring justice to this family that have experienced life altering discrimination from the people who were charged to protect them. 

I have written to West Sussex County Council with the following message:

"I am the author of the petition that has currently received more than 1000 signatures. I am acting on behalf of a number of organisations that are campaigning to end discrimination towards people based on their weight. Whilst I have a number if concerns about the judge's ruling in the case of West Sussex County Council vs A & B (Oct 2020), my main concerns is with the dangerous levels of ignorance and weight bias displayed by members of the department of social care. 

I am a doctor and an expert in the field of weight sitgma. I have guest lectured at universities in this area and am prepared to offer my services for free should social services wish to take me up on it. I feel this would go a long way to show that you are actively trying to reduce the levels of bias among staff. Please can you pass this message on to the relevant person(s).

Yours sincerely"

I also sent them a copy of my open letter to the council which you can read on my website:

https://www.fatdoctor.co.uk/an-open-letter-to-west-sussex-county-council/

Thank you to everyone who has shown their support so far. If you're sick and tired of experiencing weight stigma on a daily basis, then please continue to support and share.

Best wishes to all.

Dr Natasha Larmie (MBBS MRCGP)