Written question WQ86904

Like many other services, our eating disorder services were significantly impacted by the pandemic and we saw an increase in demand in some areas.

In response, in June 2021, we commissioned the first phase of an eating disorder activity census. This data confirmed there has been a growth in demand for eating disorder care over the last three years.

Following this first census, the NHS Benchmarking Network undertook a second national census of inpatients and community patients with eating disorders and disordered eating on behalf of NHS Wales. This showed an increase in the number of young people (and adults) being seen by the services but it also showed the majority were being seen within four weeks.

We continue to monitor these services and, by working in partnership with the NHS, ensure close scrutiny of waiting times and service use.

With funding provided by Welsh Government, health boards have adapted and expanded services and recruited additional staff to respond to increases in demand. We are committed to continued service improvement and have allocated an additional £2.5m from 2022-23 to deliver high-quality of care in Wales.

Improving specialist support is only one element of the multi-faceted approach that is needed to tackle the wider social and environmental factors that may increase the risk of eating disorders, especially in young people. We continue to work with schools and have invested in easy-to-access mental health and well-being support, including a range of tier 0/1 support services, such as the BEAT Helpline to provide early access to help and advice.