Goodbye and thank you for 25 years of FREED.
After 25 years of supporting people affected by eating disorders, we are deeply saddened to share that FREED has now closed. Following the loss of the funding that sustained our work, and despite our efforts to find a way forward, we are no longer able to continue providing our services. This is not how we hoped FREED’s story would end, and we know that this news will be difficult for many of the people who have known, used and supported the service over the years.
For a quarter of a century, FREED has been here for people experiencing eating disorders, and for the families, friends and loved ones supporting them. Over those 25 years, we have had the privilege of walking alongside people through some incredibly difficult periods in their lives, offering a place where they could be heard, understood and supported without judgement. We are immensely proud of the work that has been done, the relationships that have been built and, most importantly, the people we have been able to support.
We also know that some people arriving at this website will be doing so because they are looking for help right now. Although FREED can no longer provide that support ourselves, please do keep reaching out. There are other organisations and services that can help, and the closure of FREED should never be a reason to feel that support is no longer available.
Where to find support:
The UK’s national eating disorder charity and provides information and support for people experiencing eating disorders, as well as their families and friends. Their HelpFinder service can also help you identify eating disorder services and other sources of support in your area.
Providing support for children, young people and adults affected by eating disorders, as well as for parents, carers and families.
You can also speak to your GP, who can discuss what you are experiencing and, where appropriate, refer you to specialist NHS eating disorder services.
If you need urgent medical or mental health support, please contact NHS 111 or your local urgent mental health service. If you or somebody else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. If you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to, Samaritans are available free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123.
Please do not let the closure of FREED stop you from asking for help. There are people and organisations who will listen, and you deserve to receive the support you need.