Eating disorders are complex and there is no one single cause. We are still learning more but their development is likely a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, social and environmental factors. 

Did you know that....

• 4% of the population or approx. 1.25 million people will suffer from an eating disorder in their lifetime 
• 32% people feel stigmatised or discriminated at work because of their eating disorder 
• On average it takes 27 weeks for eating disorder treatment to start after the first visit to a GP
• 96p is spent on eating disorder research per person affected compared to £228 on cancer 
• Up to 25% people diagnosed with anorexia are male and 40% for binge eating disorder 

Katie says: Three years ago I lost my beautiful twin sister Heather to anorexia nervosa, an illness that she had battled against most of her adolescent and adult life. Despite her struggle, she never lost her hope that she would recover, her joy in life or her many passions, including her work for and belief in the NHS.  Because of this, the amazing work done by Beat to support those affected by eating disorders and to prevent other unnecessary deaths, is therefore very close to my heart. 

Please join me and Plan International UK's amazing Programme Development Team (PDT) as we  aim to smash our target of 472,500 steps over one week  from 15 -22 February to raise funds to ensure  all people living with eating disorders, and their friends and families, can access the help they deserve, and to support crucial research, guidance and campaigning.  

The difference your money could make: 

• £25 could help pay for awareness raising in schools and universities
• £48 could help Beat answer three telephone calls to support those reaching out to speak about their eating disorder
• £140 could help Beat host ten online support groups, providing a friendly, safe and welcoming space to chat with others who understand 

Thank you!