Three women who say they have together lost about 36 stone after bariatric surgery organise what they describe as the UK’s first weight-loss festival aimed at creating a supportive environment for people following weight-loss procedures. Donna Musson, 43, Anastasia Morris, 34, and Pamela Phillips, 42, met at an event after their own surgery journeys and later teamed up to set up “Barifest.” The festival is held in Bath and welcomes attendees described as including around 75 participants. Organisers say the event is designed so people feel they are not judged, focusing on bringing “slimmers together” and reducing stigma around weight loss. Reports also describe practical adjustments at the venue, including larger toilets and reinforced furniture. In addition to community and peer support, the festival includes consultations related to further surgical options, with one account stating arrangements for surgery in Turkey. All accounts present the festival as the first of its kind in the UK, led by women with lived experience of bariatric surgery, and emphasise “no shame” and a non-judgmental atmosphere.