Northamptonshire (West)

ASK

Gentle, non-judgemental opener
“I’ve noticed you seem stressed around food — how are things for you?”

ASSESS

Listen with empathy
Avoid appearance comments. Notice distress/red flags.
“Thank you for sharing — that sounds really hard.”

ACT

Encourage next steps
Suggest GP/NHS support. Follow safeguarding if needed.
“You don’t have to manage this alone — let’s find support.”

Conversation tips

• Be kind, curious, neutral
• Use open questions
• Validate feelings; avoid assumptions
• Normalise help-seeking
• Offer info, not pressure
• Leave the door open if they’re not ready

• BEAT Eating Disorders – Helpline: 0808 801 0677
• First Steps ED – Advice and support for anyone affected
• F.E.A.S.T. Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders
• Overeaters Anonymous Great Britain: Local support groups for people with eating problems.
• ARFID Awareness UK: The UK’s only registered charity dedicated to raising awareness and furthering information about Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.
• Northamptonshire Eating Disorder Service: For over 18s (with a GP in Northants). NEDS is countywide, multi-disciplinary, community service.
• Children and Young People Community Eating Disorder Service (Northamptonshire): A community specialist eating disorder service providing countywide treatment to children and young people from 5 years old up to the age of 18.