Beat has developed policies and reports over a number of years to guide our work supporting those affected by eating disorders, and to campaign for change. We are also informed by external policies and research.
Find below our perspective on the way eating disorders are treated and our reports investigating the experiences of those seeking treatment.
We estimate that around 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder. We will revise this estimate as new data becomes available. Prevalence in the UK
An estimated 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder. They are not ‘diets gone wrong’, narcissistic, fads or phases. Delaying for years, denied for months
In 2018/2019 Beat conducted research into access, waiting times and staffing levels at NHS adult community eating disorder services in England. Lives at risk: The state of NHS adult services
'Short-changed' report into funding for children and young people’s eating disorder services in England published. 'Short-changed' report into funding for children and young people’s eating disorder services in England published
Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that can have devastating long-term consequences and may even be fatal if not treated early. Early intervention on eating disorders. The crucial role of GPs.
Hit and Miss report for England
Hit and Miss report for Scotland
Hit and Miss report for Wales
Hit and Miss report for Northern Ireland
Eating disorders can have a range of Social, health and economic impacts. The Costs Of Eating Disorders
A report from All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) investigating investment in eating disorder research in the UK.
Breaking the cycle: An inquiry into eating disorder research funding in the UK
Early intervention in eating disorders accelerates recovery, improves outcomes, reduces costs and, above all, saves lives. Read our report.
There are a number of reasons why people with a diagnosis of an eating disorder may transition between services. This paper proposes a series of best practice standards for adoption by all healthcare providers offering eating disorder services. Best practice in managing services transitions
Beat has launched new guidance encouraging healthcare providers to ensure better support for families of people with eating disorders. Family Empowerment
Intensive programmes, such as Day Treatment Programmes (DTPs) and home-based treatment, are becoming more common in the treatment of eating disorders. Intensive Outpatient Treatment
Self-referral for specialist assessment removes a significant barrier by allowing individuals to refer themselves or their loved one to the local eating disorder service. Self Referral
Beat has published a report on the risks to people with eating disorders caused by government anti-obesity strategies. Changes Needed to Government Anti-obesity Strategies
Elections are a crucial opportunity to influence eating disorder policy and support for years to come. Since 2019 we have produced manifestos to show how decision makers can support our work.
2019 General Election Manifestos
2021 Senedd Election
Beat BED Report
Online Advertising and Eating Disorders
Online Safety and Eating Disorders
Guidance on recognition and management
Consensus statement developed to fully inform clinicians working within the field of eating disorders about treating vegan patients with eating disorders.
Treating Vegan Patients with Eating Disorders
Find out more about the research into eating disorders carried out by Beat and other institutions and how to take part.