Trust eating disorders team move to new Norfolk home | News

An NHS team which treats and supports people with eating disorders has moved to a new home.

The Norfolk Community Eating Disorder Service is now based at Meridian Way at the Meridian Business Park, Norwich, after leaving their previous base in the Sprowston area of the city.

The two-storey building has a welcoming reception area and a large, free car park. Inside, there are number of brightly coloured clinical rooms along with spaces more suitable for clients with neuro-diverse needs. 

There is also a kitchen where staff can work with patients on meal planning and nutritional advice.

Team manager Simon Sheppard said: “Our new home is already proving to be more popular with our patients. 

“It’s easy to get to, and the rooms are much lighter and more modern. We understand that some patients can feel a little nervous, especially when they visit our teams for the first time.

“But what we’ve been able to create is a really relaxed and welcoming environment, and the feedback from patients has already been really positive.”

The NCEDS team – which is run by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust - offers assessment and treatment to people with moderate to severe anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating, avoidant restrictive intake disorder or mixed eating disorder symptoms.

New pathways within the service also include FREED early intervention for 18-25yr olds and Intensive Community Support.

The team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, specialist nurses, dietitians, occupational therapists and support staff. Together, they work with patients to offer them a wide range of specialist, evidence-based treatment pathways which best suit their needs.

The team has treated an average of more than 550 patients per year since 2018.  Referrals to the service can be made by a GP or health professional. 

Simon said: “We are a team which promotes recovery. This means that our aim is to help our patients find the necessary skills to live worthwhile lives and move forwards from their eating disorder.

“Treatment of eating disorders can take time but recovery is possible. I am very proud of the team and the dedication they show every day to help the people who are referred to us. Overall, we are committed to working alongside all of our health and third sector sectors partners for the benefit of patients who need our support.”

CPFT employs more than 4,700 staff who provide community physical healthcare for older people and those with long-term conditions, mental healthcare for children and adults, children’s health services, learning disability support and social care support. The Trust is also renowned for its research work.

For more information contact: communications@cpft.nhs.uk