The NHS is being encouraged to commit to improve access to eating
disorder services and focus on a new model for early
intervention.
Mental Health Minister issued the rallying cry ahead
of the upcoming Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
NHS Wales' Seek Help Now campaign highlights that more
than 1.25 million people in the UK are affected by eating
disorders, but only around a third formally seek help.
This year's Eating Disorder Awareness week (23 February to 1
March) focuses on the theme of community, emphasising the vital
role family, friends and support networks play in recovery.
Significant progress has been made by health boards across Wales
expanding eating disorder services but there is variation across
Wales.
A new Foundation Level e-learning course for health and care
staff has attracted strong uptake since launching. An
Introduction to Eating Disorders, which was launched by
Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) last year,
helps people working in the sector better understand eating
disorders, recognise the signs, and know how to direct people to
the right help and support.
The Seek Help Now campaign aims to raise awareness of
eating disorders and encourage people to seek early help and
support.
The resources are part of a £2 million investment in NHS
Performance and Improvement to improve quality, outcomes and
provide same day access for those seeking mental health support.
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, , said:
“I've called on health boards to improve access
to timely treatment and focus on early intervention, as we know
the positive impact earlier help and support can have for people
living with an eating disorder.
“It is pleasing to see progress being made in expanding eating
disorder services across Wales, but we are still striving for
more people to be treated closer to home and further research
into eating disorders.
“This year's theme of community focuses on the importance of
supporting someone with an eating disorder. It shows how crucial
it is for people to have support from others around them and the
benefits it can have during their treatment.”
Notes to editors
- Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026 runs from 23 February to
1 March with the theme "Community".
- The Seek Help Now campaign provides information, self-help
resources and details of support services: Eating disorders - NHS Wales
- Campaign materials including social media assets, posters and
email footers are available here: Seek Help Now - Campaign
Toolkit - NHS Wales
- The "Introduction to Eating Disorders: Foundation Level 1"
e-learning module is available on Y Ty Dysgu for NHS
Wales staff and partners.
- Support is available through:
-
- BEAT helpline: 0808 801 0677
- C.A.L.L. Mental Health Helpline: 0800 132 737
- NHS 111 Wales (press 2 for mental health support)
- Four in five people say greater public awareness would help
them feel more comfortable discussing eating disorders.
