Our volunteers are a group of diverse individuals that share their story to bring hope and inspiration to those affected by eating disorders. They also educate those that work with those with eating disorders and have a key role in outreach to communities and professions that do not currently access Beat support. These volunteers support people to feel connected to Beat’s purpose and inspire listeners to take action to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. These volunteers are co-production expert participants that Beat involves across different departments. These volunteers are experts at supporting external co-production which aims to improve the lives of those affected by eating disorders.
We want to involve volunteers at different stages of their recovery within this role and make this as safe as possible. As such, we have recovery criteria attached to this role.
If you/your loved one has been recovered for over 1 year please read below
If you have been outside all treatment for an eating disorder for 1 year and have been in stable recovery for a year, you would be able to take part in all lived experience opportunities. We would define recovery as having a life unaffected my eating disorder behaviours. If eating disorder thoughts are still present we would expect that these are recognised and coping strategies are in place to combat these.
If you are a carer, we would ask that your loved one fills the criteria above, before you have access to all lived experience activities. The only area, you would not be able to get involved with are media requests due to issues around consent.
If you/your loved one has been recovered for less than 1 year please read below
If you are still accessing eating disorder treatment or have been in stable recovery for less than a year, you can take part in co-production, campaigning and fundraising for Beat.
Please note that opportunities within this role are dependant on the requests which we receive externally. Therefore, you will be contacted about relevant induction and training when specific requests fit your experience.
Involvement in co-production can lead into other volunteering opportunities once the 1 year mark of recovery has been passed.
If you wish to be involved in co-production you must:
If you are a carer, we would ask that your loved one fills the criteria above, before you can take part in co-production/consultation opportunities.
Interested in becoming a Lived Experience Volunteer?