Adults across North Lincolnshire now have access to dedicated, specialist support for eating disorders thanks to the expansion of Rharian Fields’ community service — marking a major step forward in addressing gaps in local mental health care.
Delivered by Navigo – the provider of NHS mental health services in neighbouring North East Lincolnshire – the North Lincolnshire Adult Community Eating Disorder Service offers support to adults aged 17.5 and over who are living with, or at risk of developing, an eating disorder.
The expansion marks a significant step forward for North Lincolnshire, offering local people easier access to specialist care for conditions such as anorexia and bulimia that was previously only available outside the area.
Mandy Barker, Clinical Lead for Community Eating Disorder Services at Navigo, said: “We’re proud to expand our support to the people of North Lincolnshire and make a difference to individuals and their families who want access to expert care.
“Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in the number of people seeking help for eating disorders, so this development is a timely and necessary response to address the growing need in our communities.”
The North Lincolnshire Adult Community Eating Disorder Service provides a comprehensive package of care, including access to evidence-based psychological therapies and physical health monitoring.
This holistic approach ensures that people receive the right support in the right setting, helping them manage both the mental and physical aspects of eating disorders.
Mike Reeve, Deputy Chief Executive at Navigo, said: “Expanding eating disorder support into North Lincolnshire is a clear example of how we’re delivering on the ambitions set out in the NHS Long Term Plan.
“Working in partnership with Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), we want to create and maintain accessible, person-centred care in the heart of our communities — and ensure people no longer have to wait too long to get the help they need.”
The service also includes access to First Episode Rapid Intervention for Eating Disorders, also known as FREED. Young people aged 16 to 25 who have had an eating disorder for less than three years can get fast access to treatment tailored to the unique challenges of early stage eating disorders.
Individuals can refer themselves directly through FREED, without needing to involve GP or healthcare professional, although they can also refer on behalf of a patient.
Alex Seale, North Lincolnshire Place Director at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said: “This new adult eating disorder service is a really important step forward for people in North Lincolnshire. We know there’s a growing need for support in this area, and this service is a timely response to that.
“It brings together both physical and mental health care in one place, making sure people get the right help, at the right time, in the right setting. By offering evidence-based therapies alongside physical health monitoring, we’re giving people the tools to manage their condition and improve their overall wellbeing.”
Anyone aged 17.5 and over who is showing signs of an eating disorder can be referred to the North Lincolnshire Adult Community Eating Disorder Service by a GP or healthcare professional.
For advice or questions about an individual’s eligibility for the service, visit the Rharian Fields section or call the Rharian Fields team on (01472) 808450.
Navigo does not provide mental health crisis services in North Lincolnshire. If you or someone you know in North Lincolnshire is experiencing a mental health crisis, feeling suicidal and in need of urgent support, call 0800 804 8999 to speak to the crisis team at RDaSH, or call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
