This half-day Eating Disorders Awareness course helps care staff and support workers understand the complexities of eating disorders and how they may present in people they support. It introduces learners to three common eating disorders — Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder — and explores how these conditions can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing.

The course is suitable for anyone working in care, education, or support roles who may come into contact with individuals affected by disordered eating. No clinical experience is needed — just an interest in developing a more compassionate and informed response.

Learners will gain a better understanding of contributory factors, recognise early signs and behaviours, and explore ways to respond sensitively within the scope of their role.

Key Learning

• Understanding eating disorders and their characteristics
• Overview of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder
• Physical, behavioural, and emotional signs
• Risk factors and potential causes
• The impact of eating disorders on health and wellbeing
• Myths and misconceptions
• How to offer supportive, non-judgemental responses
• When and how to seek help or escalate concerns

Eating disorders can be life-limiting and are often misunderstood. This awareness-level course supports care staff and other frontline workers to build a clearer understanding of what eating disorders are, how they may present, and how to respond with compassion and confidence.

Learners will explore the signs and symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder, as well as less well-known behaviours that may signal distress around food, body image, or control. The course also looks at social, psychological, and environmental factors that may contribute to the development or persistence of disordered eating.

This session is not intended to diagnose or treat, but to increase awareness and confidence in recognising when something may be wrong, how to respond appropriately, and when to seek further support. It reflects guidance from national organisations such as Beat (the UK’s leading eating disorder charity) and NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence).

Relevant Standards Covered:

Care Certificate Standard 5 – Work in a person-centred way

Care Certificate Standard 6 – Communication

Care Certificate Standard 7 – Privacy and dignity

Care Certificate Standard 10 – Safeguarding adults

Mental Health and Wellbeing: Promoting awareness and support

Open course per person          £97
In-house for up to 6 people    £343
In-house for up to 12 people  £365