New eating disorders support confirmed for Limerick

A NEW eating disorders team has been confirmed for Limerick by Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler.

The new Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) eating disorder team will cover Limerick city, county and county Clare.

The new facility is part of the nationwide rollout of the HSE’s National Clinical Programme on eating disorders, and is supported by an additional investment of €1.2 million this year.

Minister Butler said she was “really pleased to confirm” the new eating disorder team for the Mid-West”.

“These multidisciplinary teams will support children and adults with eating disorders, working to assess people’s needs, diagnose eating disorders, and commence person-centred treatment based on a variety of evidence-based interventions.

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“Eating disorder teams have greatly enhanced screening and early recognition of eating disorders in Ireland, and are providing swifter access to specialist services.”

Minister Butler also welcomed 2024 data for the National Clinical Programme showing increases in activity across referrals, assessments, diagnoses and access to treatment. There was a 33% increase in referrals versus 2023, with a 25% increase in assessments completed.

Access times for services also improved, with 62% of referrals assessed within four weeks, and 90% of people commencing treatment within four weeks of their assessment.

The minister added: “Improving access to quality services is an absolute priority for me, and I know there is more to be done as we work to complete the rollout of the National Clinical Programme. I will continue efforts to ensure additional investment in eating disorder supports to make sure that care is delivered where and when needed, including both community based and inpatient care.

“I am determined to build on the progress made with the programme to date to deliver quality eating disorders services to those who need it.”