Paediatricians have seen a huge rise in cases of anorexia nervosa and other food restriction disorders in this age group, with some reporting a doubling, tripling or even quadrupling of cases compared with the same period last year.

For more information, please go to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) website by clicking here.

Help and support

BEAT eating disorders charity has a lot of useful information on their website and their helpline is open over the festive period.

• The Beat Youthline is open to anyone under 18. Phone: 0808 801 0711 or Email: fyp@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
• The Beat Adult Helpline is open to anyone over 18.
• Parents, teachers or any concerned adults should call the adult helpline: 0808 801 0677.
• Email: help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk