The East Belfast Alliance MLA asked the Minister in an Assembly written question how many local eating disorder patients are currently being treated in Great Britain and what progress he has made on the delivery of improved specialist treatment for eating disorders as recommended by the Bamford Review in 2005. In his response, the Health Minister has revealed that 8 people are currently being treated outside Northern Ireland.
The Minister also stated that whilst specialist community eating disorder teams treat patients in Northern Ireland there is a need for improved investment in local services.
Chris Lyttle MLA said: “I have first hand experience of severe eating disorders and am aware of the added distress receiving treatment away from family and friends can cause for sufferers.
“The slogan for Eating Disorder Awareness week is ‘Never Give Up – The Sun Will Shine Again’. People do recover from eating disorders with the right help and I commend the campaign of Adapt Eating Distress to raise awareness of this challenging condition and get the best treatment possible for patients in Northern Ireland.”
ENDS
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, Adapt Eating Distress can be contacted on 028 3834 7535 or via email at info@adapteatingdistress.com.