Eating Disorders Awareness Week February 24-28th 2014

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The committee of NEEDS(Scotland) were fortunate to be invited to several events organised by the Scottish Parliament for Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Dennis Robertson, MSP, has kept the profile of eating disorders high on the agenda at Holyrood for the last two years, after tragically losing his daughter, Caroline to anorexia, and organised a week of events to raise awareness. There was a reception in Edinburgh Castle on Wednesday 26th Feb where the First Minister, Alex Salmond was able to speak with professionals, recovered sufferers, carers and volunteers. He appeared profoundly moved by what he had heard during the evening.

On Thursday 27th February, at the Scottish Parliament a very informative film featuring three girls who had experience of eating disorders was launched, along with a charity song written by Paul Donald of MBEEDS, Men and Boys Eating and Exercise Support(Scotland) Both will play a significant part in raising awareness amongst young people. You can buy the EP from itunes priced at £3.16.

The week of events culminated on Friday 28th February with a conference “Eating Disorders- The Way Forward”. The conference looked at the current state of affairs in Scotland, and explored how Scotland could move forward in this field. Sessions included The Role of the Media, Fashion, Technology and Social Media, Eating Disorders in Males, Nutrition and Dieticians and Supporting Families and Carers. MSPs from all parties, carers, clinicians, volunteers and those affected by eating disorders attended some very lively and at times very emotionally charged debates. Many different perspectives were explored and views heard.

The events provided a great facility to hear views from all sides of the debate and for invited guests to build contacts and learn from one another. Dennis Robertson urged anyone encountering difficulties with services provided to contact their MSP and make them aware of their situation. You can find out the name of, your MSP  through the Scottish Parliament website, by submitting your postcode.

The debate which took place on 26th February led by Dennis Robertson, MSP on Eating Disorders can be viewed through YouTube, by doing a search using the date and Dennis Robertson, Eating Disorders.