What We’ll Cover:

• What a Champion is
• How Champions support other patients
• Why lived experience matters
• The benefits of becoming a Champion
• How to become a part of the Champion community

You may have seen Champions in your Roczen groups or heard them speak in sessions. This article explains their role and how they support others.

What Is a Champion?

A Champion is a current patient in the Roczen programme who uses their lived experience and first-hand understanding of the programme to support others. 

They understand what it feels like to manage weight and improve health because they are on a similar journey themselves. 

Champions support patients within Roczen Groups alongside mentors, sharing personal experiences, encouragement, and practical insights to help create a supportive community where patients feel understood and less alone.

Champions are not medical professionals and do not give clinical advice. 

How Do Champions Support Others?

Champions help create a supportive and welcoming community.

They may:

• Share their journey in “My group”
• Encourage others during difficult moments
• Speak in Talks and in other Group sessions or events
• Talk openly about challenges and progress
• Help new patients feel more comfortable

Hearing from someone who has been through similar experiences can make things feel more manageable.

Why Lived Experience Matters

Lived experience means having personal understanding of something through your own journey and experiences. 

Champions know the ups and downs of making lifestyle changes. This can help you feel:

• Less alone
• More supported
• More confident in your journey

It can also help patients stay engaged and connected with the programme. 

Benefits of Becoming a Champion

Supporting others can also support your own progress.

Many Champions report:

• Increased confidence
• A stronger sense of community
• Greater motivation
• A feeling of purpose

Sharing your journey can help you reflect on how far you’ve come.

Could You Become a Champion?

You may be interested in becoming a Champion if you:

• Feel comfortable sharing your experiences
• Want to support others in a positive way
• Are active in the Roczen programme

When Can You Become a Champion?

We usually encourage patients to spend some time in the programme before becoming a Champion. This gives you the opportunity to settle in, build sustainable habits, gain confidence, and make meaningful progress towards your goals.

Every patient’s journey is different, so there isn’t an exact timeline. However, we would usually say around 8–12 weeks is a good guide, with most people being ready closer to the 12-week mark. That said, we always look at the individual, their progress, and how comfortable they feel within the programme before making that step

If you’re interested, you can speak to your Roczen clinician or mentor to explore whether becoming a Champion is right for you.

Summary

Champions are patients who support others through shared experience. They help create a sense of community, offer encouragement, and show that change is possible.

Whether you connect with a Champion or become one yourself, their support can play an important role in your Roczen journey.