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).

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.

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.

We offer guided self-help for overcoming binge eating disorders, but not specific for obesity/weight loss. We recommend you see your GP or community dieticians. Your GP can refer on to specialist services if required.

Support for carers

We work with the charity BEAT to provide carers support. Please contact us via email (dhc.eatingdisorders@nhs.net) or call 0300 0191771 for more information.

We also run a carers skills workshop is online across two days at regular intervals throughout the year. The skills explored are based upon the Maudsley Method which uses evidence-based research and personal experience to deliver helpful information to carers of loved ones with eating disorders.

The training which combines delivery of clinical research, practical skills and tips, and an opportunity to share ideas and experiences, is delivered in a supportive online environment by experienced eating disorder clinicians.

Contact us to find out more and the dates of the next workshop.

Key information about this service

If you are struggling with an eating-related problem which is affecting your health, you can access this service by contacting your GP. Referrals to the service can also be made by any health or social care professional.

We also accept self-referral and parental referral.

Dorset ED Service Referral form for Community RiO

Dorset ED Service Self-Referral Form

Kings Park Hospital - Boscombe

01202 303757

Wi-Fi: Yes

Parking: Yes

Disabled access: Yes

St. Ann's Hospital - Poole

01202 708881

Wi-Fi: Yes

Parking: Yes

Disabled access: Yes

Trinity Court

Wi-Fi: No

Parking: Yes

Disabled access: Yes

Wareham Hospital - Wareham

01929 552433

Wi-Fi: Yes

Parking: Yes

Disabled access: Yes

No matter what our age, our wellbeing is important to our health.

When we consider our wellbeing to be the state that we are comfortable, healthy or happy, then we can explore areas that impact on this.

Watch these videos for more information.

 

Our community eating disorder service is open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, excluding bank holidays. Outside of these hours, if you or your loved one are in a crisis and need support, please use the contacts below in the first instance.

For physical health concerns: dial 111 for urgent NHS medical advice.  NHS111 is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week. 

For mental health concerns: dial Connections: 0800 6520190 - Connections is a round the clock helpline for Dorset resident or visitors in mental health crisis. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Access Mental Health - supporting you in a crisis:  if you are struggling to cope or feel yourself nearing a breakdown, Access Mental Health is here to provide help. Designed in partnership with local people, it offers a range of services which provide support at times and places when people need it the most. Check out our website page for more information on our drop-in face-to-face or virtual support.