I joined Eating Distress North East (EDNE) as Chief Executive on 18^th October and one month into post am reflecting on what I’ve done so far.

I started by meeting all staff members and asking them the same three questions:

• What do we do well?
• Where can we improve?
• What do you expect from a CEO?

I can’t take credit for the questions, I’m sure I read them somewhere on the internet but can’t remember where! But they helped me quickly understand staff perspectives and priorities for the organisation and my role in the early weeks.

At the same time I’ve been learning a great deal about eating distress and our services.

Mortality rates for people with eating disorders double that of the general population and remain the highest mortality rate for any mental health issue.​

The average duration is seven years, but with early help the chance of a full recovery is much improved.​

At EDNE we use the term eating distress because we are here for you if you have a disordered relationship with food, with or without a diagnosis. That early intervention and support is vital and we’re fortunate that our commissioners and funders understand and support the work we do.

Supporting someone with easting distress is challenging and in addition to counselling for the individual, we also provide wrap around support for friends and family through regular health and wellbeing sessions and the respected Maudsley Model Training programme.

Designed for carers, it aims to help friends and family members best support their loved one on their path towards recover.

Our next programme will be held on 14^th and 15^th January 2023 and you can contact us at enquiries@edne.org.uk to find out more.

Over the next few weeks and months I’ll be getting to grips with all aspects of Eating Distress North East, and the role of Chief Executive of a small and very busy charity!

If you want to get in touch to chat about our work drop me a line at anne.fry@edne.org.uk

Anne Fry

Chief Executive

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