The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Eating Disorders has released a new report highlighting the need for immediate action to improve eating disorder services, widen access to care and prevent future deaths.
Vanessa Longley, Beat's Chief Executive, said:
"This vital report brings into sharp focus the serious failings eating disorder patients have suffered, leading to avoidable deaths. The Government and NHS leaders must now act swiftly to ensure that no other lives are needlessly lost.
"A crucial first step towards this needs to be addressing the postcode lottery: everyone in the UK should have the chance to benefit from outstanding care in a safe and well-funded service, irrespective of how long they have been unwell. We echo the report’s call to increase investment in intensive community and day services to help reduce hospital admissions and ensure that excellent support is available for everyone after discharge from inpatient care.
"Patients must receive the specialist treatment they need without delay. All frontline healthcare staff can play a significant role in this, from spotting the early warning signs to delivering high-quality, evidence-based treatment, so it is essential that staff are given training to identify, diagnose and support those with eating disorders to have the best chance of recovery.
"This report adds to an overwhelming bank of evidence showing that these issues need urgent attention. Those affected by eating disorders, their loved ones and those who have sadly lost someone to an eating disorder do not deserve more platitudes and posturing by decision makers; now, action is needed to overhaul a desperately underfunded and broken system."