First Steps ED is a multi-award winning, quality assured eating disorder charity.
We work across the UK, providing care and support for children and their families, young people and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders.
Commissioned by NHS organisations and through grants from funders whose objectives align to our aims, our founding principles are based on the experiences of individuals who have had, are still living with, and have recovered from eating disorders and general mental health conditions.
Early intervention and prevention
Developed by people who have lived experience of eating disorders and co-morbid mental health disorders, we provide non-clinical early intervention and prevention services that complement the NHS and Public Health in the community.
Our Values
Our values are being passionate about recovery and believing in what we do – we define these as our core 5-P’s: Passion, People, Potential, Partnership and Professional
We believe that support should be available for all those affected by eating difficulties and disorders, including family, carers, parents and support professionals.
Eating disorders are rarely about food – sufferers often just use this as a way of coping with their underlying emotional difficulties or mental illness in more severe cases.
Our Services
Caring for Carers
Caring for a loved one with an eating disorder, diagnosed or not, can be overwhelming. It is common for families to feel that their new ‘carer’ role is impacting their own mental and physical health which is why First Steps ED feel our carers support pathway is an important offer within our service.
As well as a number of services available to you, we also have a range of resources and blog available as further reading and guidance. These are open access, and those in a carer role are welcome (and encouraged!) to contribute their own stories and experiences on our blog platform with the hope to shine a light on the importance of carers as a key part of a loved ones recovery.
Explore our Blog
Not quite ready? Check out our blog for inspiration and motivation.
We are passionate about our creating a community which is understanding and non-judgmental, believing that support and guidance should be available for anyone affected by eating difficulties and disorders. It can take time to reach out for support and finding the confidence to speak to someone.
Our blog is here for whenever you need it. Here you’ll find First Steps ED updates, as well as stories and features from our community.
If you or someone you care for is affected by an eating disorder or eating distress, we are here for you. Wherever you are in your journey, we have a range of services to help.
Our helplines are open Tuesday to Friday – 9:30am to 5pm
Free support
If you’re ready to take the first step towards recovery, please submit a referral using our online form.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to visit our contact page and speak to a member of our team. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Referrals can either be made by yourself, by a parent/ carer, or professional support worker. After making a referral, we aim to make contact within 10 workings days.
Please note: we are not a clinical service so please make an appointment to see your GP whilst you wait to hear from us. It is important you receive medical monitoring if you are struggling at the moment. If you need help with a mental health crisis or emergency, please visit the NHS website, contact your GP or for immediate assistance call 999
Phone: 0300 011 1213
Email: info@firststepsed.co.uk
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