Northern Ireland's first regional obesity management service has been approved by the health minister.

Mike Nesbitt's announcement follows a public consultation by the Department of Health (DOH) on the proposed introduction of such a service.

Currently, health service patients in Northern Ireland do not have access to specialist weight management provision, including "innovative weight loss injections/medications," the DoH said.

The first phase, which is scheduled to begin in 2026, will focus on the development of a community-based service where patients will have access to lifestyle support as well as obesity medication, if clinically appropriate.

The department said: "The service will support access to weight loss medication in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance.

"Any rollout will be carefully managed in a phased manner to ensure that treatment is provided in a safe and effective manner."