The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) has raised concerns over planned reductions in funding for eating disorder services by more than half of England’s Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
In the 2024–2025 financial year, 24 of 42 ICBs are expected to reduce investment in children and young people’s services by over £835,000, despite a 13% rise in referrals over the past year. At the end of 2024, more than 6,000 young people were still waiting for treatment.
RCPsych warns that high access thresholds, limited staffing, and increased demand are contributing to delayed care and poorer outcomes. In 2023, 21.8% of consultant roles in eating disorders psychiatry remained vacant—the highest rate across psychiatric specialties.
The College supports calls from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on eating disorders for a national strategy, increased funding, and workforce development to meet NHS access targets and address rising need.
Eating disorders, in particular anorexia nervosa, have high rates of mortality, yet are treatable conditions and with the right care and support in a timely manner most patients can make a full recovery. This must be backed by adequate funding so that services have the resources they need to deliver the care our children and young people deserve.
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The upcoming Eating Disorders: Current Issues, Best Practice and New Models of Care conference offers a timely opportunity for professionals to explore solutions, share practical strategies, and drive improvements in care.
