Eating Disorders

COVID-19 service update: supporting patients in the community via telephone and video calls, with face-to-face appointments where necessary. Inpatient and day programme services are running as usual. Information for visitors to inpatient wards/units.

This service is designed to help individuals, and their families/carers, overcome a range of different eating disorders, including Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa. We treat people of all ages from across Dorset (including Bournemouth and Poole).

If you are struggling with an eating-related problem which is affecting your health, you can access this service by contacting your GP. We provide a number of evidence-based treatments, tailored to the needs of the individual. These include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), family therapy, motivational interviewing and interpersonal therapy, as well as body image and self-esteem therapies.

Treatment takes place mainly on an outpatient basis, though some people may require day and/or inpatient treatment depending on their needs. Treatment is provided on a 1-1 basis, in groups and with families – again, linked to the requirements of the individual. Our experienced team includes specialist nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, dietitians family therapists and psychologist.

Referrals to the service can also be made by any health or social care professional. Self-referral and parental referral are also accepted by the service.

Family members and/or carers play a key role in the recovery process. If you are concerned about the eating habits of a loved one, you can contact their GP directly.

There is a Carers’ Support Group which meets at Kimmeridge Court, St Ann’s Hospital, Poole, on the last Thursday of each month from 7.00 to 8.30pm.