First Steps ED is a national charity offering compassionate, early help and recovery support for anyone affected by eating difficulties or eating disorders. We welcome children, young people, adults, and families, whether or not you have a formal diagnosis.
Our services are shaped by lived experience and include:
- Free early intervention support and advice for eating difficulties and related mental health challenges.
- Therapy and counselling delivered by qualified professionals.
- Befriending and peer support from people who understand what you’re going through.
- Support groups and workshops for individuals, parents, and carers.
- Nutritional support and education resources.
- Specialist help for ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).
We work alongside the NHS and local health groups to help you access the right support in your community. Our team is friendly, approachable, and ready to listen—whether you need advice, someone to talk to, or practical help.
How to access support:
- You can self-refer or be referred by a professional using our online referral form.
- Contact us by phone or email for information or to book a session.
- Private practice appointments are available via our booking page.
Cost: Most services are free. Private practice therapy is available for a fee—please enquire for details.
Who can use this service? Anyone in the UK affected by eating difficulties or disorders, including carers and family members. No diagnosis is required.
Get involved: Support our work by fundraising, volunteering, or joining our events. Every contribution helps us reach more people in need.
Children and young people aged 5-25 in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland with mild to moderate eating disorder symptoms or poor body image are able to make a referral to access First Steps ED services.
Referrals that are unsuitable for First Steps ED services:
· Children under the age of 5
· Anyone with feeding problems such as diagnosed phobias, emetophobia or PICA.
· Anyone currently in crisis or under CAMHS crisis team.
Before you make a referral, or whilst you wait for an initial assessment we advise you to make an appointment with your general practitioner (GP).