We are the UK’s eating disorder charity. Founded in 1989 as the Eating Disorders Association, our mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders.
Around 1.25 million people in the UK suffer from these illnesses, many in secret. They are of all ages, genders and backgrounds – eating disorders do not discriminate. Eating disorders include bulimia, binge eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED), and anorexia, which tragically has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, though all eating disorders can be deadly. While this is the worst-case scenario, there are many ways in which eating disorders severely affect the quality of life of both those suffering and those who care about them. They steal childhoods, devastate relationships and pull families apart. But, with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.
Our national Helpline exists to encourage and empower people to get help quickly, because we know the sooner someone starts treatment, the greater their chance of recovery. People can contact us online or by phone. We listen to them, help them to understand the illness, and support them to take positive steps towards recovery. We also support family and friends, equipping them with essential skills and advice, so they can help their loved ones recover whilst also looking after their own mental health. And we campaign to increase knowledge among healthcare and other relevant professionals, and for better funding for high-quality treatment, so that when people are brave enough to take vital steps towards recovery, the right help is available to them.
Calls to the helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills.
For people who have or are worried they have an eating disorder, as well as others affected, such as friends and family members
Our Helplines are open from 3pm to 8pm - Monday to Friday
Support is available online and via a helpline
Free
Please visit the Beat website and Facebook page for more information and support or you can email or call us.
Helpline: 0808 801 0677 - Calls to the helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills.
Email: help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Post: FAO Helpline, Beat, Unit 1 Chalk Hill House, 19 Rosary Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 1SZ
If you are in need of urgent help or medical advice for yourself or someone else please contact 999 or the Samaritans on 116 123 if you or someone else is in immediate danger. If you are looking for medical advice contact your GP or 111.
General enquiries
Phone: 0300 123 3355
Email: info@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
For more information about Beat search Beat in this directory.
