A Somerset-based charity has launched a Christmas appeal to help people living with eating disorders navigate the festive season and beyond.

SWEDA (Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association) has created a downloadable guide, available on its website, offering advice for those struggling during the holidays. The charity hopes the resource will provide strategies to cope with the food-centric and socially demanding nature of the season while also highlighting the support available 24/7, including on Christmas Day.

Alongside the guide, SWEDA has launched its annual Christmas Fundraising Appeal. The charity hopes to use the funds raised to expand its services in 2025, enabling its specialist team to help more people recover.

Founded in 1992, SWEDA supports people across the South and West of England, focusing on early intervention to prevent the escalation of disordered eating and improve the likelihood of sustained recovery.

"Christmas made me feel so afraid and isolated. When I met my SWEDA counsellor, everything changed. SWEDA made me feel less alone, truly seen and listened to, with absolutely no judgement. I'm now at university and feel excited about my future. Recovery is absolutely possible," said a SWEDA client who received support during the past year.

The Office for National Statistics estimates that 1.25 million people in the UK are living with eating disorders. For many, the festive season can be an especially challenging time. Disrupted routines, a focus on food, and societal pressures to attend gatherings or indulge can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety.

Paula Blight, CEO of SWEDA, highlighted the charity's achievements in 2024, including reaching a turnover of £1 million for the first time. However, she emphasised that the real success lies in the impact of their work:

"Reaching the £1 million turnover mark was a huge milestone for us. However, our team's biggest success of 2024 was witnessing the positive impact we've had on the lives of people with eating disorders.

"Our data shows that our therapeutic services have maintained a high success rate in reducing disordered eating behaviours, improving psychological wellbeing, and supporting recovery. We hope this year's Christmas appeal will enable us to extend our services further in 2025, including counselling, nutrition-focused sessions, and support groups.

"Our vision is to support everyone affected by eating disorders across the South and West of England."

For anyone struggling with eating disorders this festive season, SWEDA's guide offers practical strategies to help manage anxiety and find moments of joy. The charity also encourages those in need to seek support from its services.

For more information or to download the guide, visit the SWEDA website.