About us

First Steps ED is a multi-award winning, quality assured eating disorder charity.

We work in regions throughout the UK, providing care and support for children and their families, young people and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders.

Founded on experience

Commissioned by NHS organisations and through grants from funders whose objectives align to our aims, our founding principles are based on the experiences of individuals who have had, are still living with, and have recovered from eating disorders and general mental health conditions.

Investment

Our NHS commissioners currently provide a funding ratio of 8:1 – for every £1 invested by the NHS into our services, First Steps works hard to secure an additional £8 from our business development team.

Early intervention and prevention

Developed by people who have lived experience of eating disorders and co-morbid mental health disorders, we provide non-clinical early intervention and prevention services that complement the NHS and Public Health in the community.

“I have really enjoyed working with First Steps, I think it is a great charity to be a part of, not only are the team and trustee board committed to the charity and the way that its run, but they are 100% committed to the people we support.”

Stephanie Mawer, Volunteer HR Advisor

“It’s fantastic working for an organisation that seeks to be led by service users. If only more places like this existed.”

Michelle Ward, Counsellor

“I just wanna say thank you for all of your support through volunteering, as volunteering for this organisation was probably one of the best decisions I made.”

Selina Hussain, Befriender