Solace

Solace is a free video-based peer support group hosted over Zoom. It's for anyone supporting somebody with an eating disorder and gives you the opportunity to share your feelings and get support from others in a similar situation.

Whilst facilitated by an experienced eating disorder clinician, the session is led by you. Topics may include discussion arounds meal plans, setting boundaries and understanding why change is difficult. 

You’ll get the chance to raise other points for discussion and, where possible, to speak with a Beat Ambassador, a person who has recovered from an eating disorder themselves.

While there are specific Scotland and Wales groups please be aware that if those sessions don't work for you, you are more than welcome to join the other UK wide groups.  

Beat have offered reassurance, contact with other parents who are  going the the same thing - either at the same time, ahead of you or a little bit behind. They are a comfort, inspiration and also it is great to share your own experiences knowing that another family might benefit? BEAT pass on training and knowledge which is vital in assisting the entire  family on this journey. It helps you to reflect on the way you approach and handle situations daily.

We are exhausted but grateful for the constant reminders to attend to self care in our Solace group. As a parent it can often seem like self indulgence but it is essential. Good to be reminded. Thank you for helping to hold us all together. It’s a long journey and a thousand thanks, ten times over for all that you do. 

How often is Solace available?

Solace runs seven times a week so that you’re able to join the group that most suits you. Times vary between 19:00-20:30 Monday to Thursday, Friday 10:00-11:30, and Saturday 10:00-11:30.

Four groups are open to everyone in the UK. Scotland and Wales also have a dedicated group each to ensure conversation is relevant to the healthcare systems in those nations.  If the Scotland and Wales groups don't suit your schedule, please feel free to join the other UK groups - they are open to everyone in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Do I have to commit to joining each week?

No. Every Solace group is booked individually, so you can decide whether you want to attend regularly or just occasionally.

Can I join more than one group per week?

You can, but please do be aware that spaces are limited and we would like to make sure as many people get support as possible.

What if I can’t join a group I’ve booked?

Please let us know as soon as possible if you won’t be using your space so that we can offer it to somebody else.

What is needed from me?

In order to join Solace, you’ll need a good internet connection and a working camera.

If you have other questions, please contact training@beateatingdisorders.org.uk.

Beat's Solace Group has really really helped me feel like I am helping others as we are further along the journey but also reassured me that there others going through this too.  Caring for someone is a hugely emotional experience and now that things are more calm and less emotional.

These sessions may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes and will not be shared externally. If you have any questions please contact the training team via training@beateatingdisorders.org.uk.