Due to the subjective nature of domestic abuse and the shame and stigma that sit around it, recognising the signs can be incredibly challenging. This is why often cases of domestic abuse reach crisis point before anyone realised that abuse was even occurring. We therefore have to become better at recognising and responding to the signs across our communities, within our workplaces and amongst those we work with, at an earlier point. By understanding some of the issues and barriers that sit in and around domestic abuse, we are better equipped to reach those affected at a much earlier point. Eating Disorders are often deeply entangled with domestic abuse and this session explores why and how that happens.

The session includes an interview with Lucy Whittaker, Founding Director of Alpha Vesta and Actress Gemma Oaten, Manager of SEED Eating Disorder Support Service who have been supporting Alpha Vesta in the writing of the session.

Attendees will:-

Understand why the signs of domestic abuse are incredibly challenging to recognise

Understand why sometimes we will spot the difficulties occurring around the abuse before the abuse itself

Understand the different types of Eating Disorders

Understand the different ways Domestic Abuse and Eating Disorders are deeply entangled.

Feel better equipped to spot the signs of domestic abuse and/or an Eating Disorder

Understand how to reach out safely and effectively

Know where and how to refer or signpost for support and help

This session is funded by The Smallwood Trust.