Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) congratulates the Victorian Government on the Eating Disorders Strategy 2024-31, particularly its focus on lived experience leadership and accessibility.
The Strategy will work with various organisations including EDV to support Victorians impacted by all eating disorders.
This includes access to peer-led, early intervention support. Peer support is a highly effective treatment option that complements clinical care.1
EDV CEO Belinda Caldwell says “eating disorders are harrowing mental illnesses that need a person-centred approach. The emphasis on lived experience leadership and peer support means the Victorian Eating Disorder Strategy will stay focused on the people it’s for.”
“EDV is proud to offer services that are free, statewide, and in some cases even globally unique. We are delighted the Strategy recognises the value of early help-seeking and look forward to working with government to make support more accessible and equitable.” Says Mrs Caldwell.
Other notable commitments in the Strategy include a mental health-led approach to eating disorder treatment, a new regional day program in Barwon Heads, and support for in-home care.
EDV supported the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy’s development, facilitating community input and subject matter expertise.
Quotes attributable to Eating Disorders Victoria CEO Belinda Caldwell:
“Eating disorders are insidious mental illnesses impacting hundreds of thousands of Victorians. A strong government strategy will be life-changing and lifesaving.”
“No one should live the preventable suffering of an eating disorder. Evidence shows us that with the right support at the right time, eating disorder recovery is not only possible, but probable.”
“Eating disorders, along with substance use, have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. We already have the treatments and support models that work. Any death from an eating disorder in Victoria today should and can be totally avoidable.”
-ENDS-
Media contact: Katia Pellicciotta, Manager Communications & Advocacy
[email protected]
Eating disorders support – please reference:
Eating Disorders Victoria 1300 550 236 or web form.
About Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV)
Since 1983, Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) has been a trusted support provider and advocate for Victorians experiencing eating disorders and their loved ones. EDV supports people across the eating disorder journey, from early intervention or diagnosis to recovery.
References
Raspovic A, Duck R, Synnot A et al. A peer mentoring program for eating disorders: improved symptomatology and reduced hospital admissions, three years and a pandemic on. Journal of Eating Disorders. 2024;12(99). doi:10.1186/s40337-024-01051-7.
