About

Rachel – the research and science behind the SCALE Plan operation.

Rachel is a Psychologist with a massive interest in all things ‘health’. She’s particularly interested in how peoples’ behaviour may be affecting both their physical and mental wellbeing. She truly believes that everyone is unique – one person’s way of living will be completely different to someone else’s. So it’s important to see what’s going on for someone on an individual level, and to make simple changes to create a fit and healthy lifestyle.

It is her mission to make sure that information, support, and coaching is grounded in science. Working as a researcher has made her realise that there is so much good evidence out there, and it should be used and applied properly in the real world.

She’s particularly interested in keeping an eye on claims from media reports about ‘what scientists have found’. It’s a bit of a hobby of hers to then look for the research these reports are based on. From this she can see whether what the media says is telling the whole truth or missing out some vital points which should also be reported.

When she’s not working, Rachel likes to try out new recipes in the kitchen, or to be outdoors with James for a cycle or surf. If not, you’ll find her vegging out on the sofa with her dog Otto and a cup of tea.

James – Head Trainer and one of our Nutrition Coaches for the SCALE Plan operation

James is a Personal Trainer with over 7 years’ experience, and now runs his own studio. He’s hugely passionate about health and mental wellbeing and believes that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling, healthy, and happy life.

As well as his day-to-day coaching, he’s also worked with the NHS to pilot exercise schemes for people suffering with mental health issues. He is also one of the first trainers in the UK to be qualified to coach people with sight impairments.

James has also been on his own personal journey with training and nutrition. It wasn’t until he hit his 30s that he found his health was at an all-time low and he was struggling with obesity. He decided to join a gym and make simple changes to his nutrition and lifestyle; and that’s how he got to where he is today.

He understands that weight-loss is not an overnight process, and that changes need to be made that are sustainable and suitable for every individual person.

As well as his enjoyment of everything food and fitness, James likes to spend his free time with his wife Rachel and 10 year old son Ollie. He also enjoys playing the guitar and catching surf waves.

Ben – the programmer for the SCALE Plan website

Ben is a web developer with fifteen years of experience and has worked with Rachel and James to handle the technical side of taking their SCALE Plan idea online. He’s particularly interested in being able to use technology to help people in some way, and so the idea of a service that puts people in contact with coaches to improve their health was something he was keen to be involved with.

When not at his computer Ben organises eating and drinking events at restaurants and pubs in his local area, taking advantage of the Internet to help bring people together from all sorts of different backgrounds. As well as enjoying trying out new cuisines he’s found this to be of great benefit to his mental health and enjoys helping others form new friendship groups.

When feeling the need for some fresh air Ben likes to head out on his bicycle and also enjoys taking long walks in the countryside.