Eating Disorder Training for Youth Practitioners

Who's invited?

• This programme is open to all third sector staff and volunteers supporting young people.

Why attend?

Professionals working with young people across Oxfordshire are increasingly encountering complex issues around body image, disordered eating, and low self-esteem. With the rise in social pressures, online influences, and mental health challenges, eating disorders are becoming more prevalent—and often harder to detect. At the same time, staff working in education, youth services, social care, and community settings may feel under-equipped to recognise the signs, respond appropriately, or support recovery.

This practical, evidence-based training is designed to empower professionals with the knowledge and confidence to support young people affected by eating disorders—while also prioritising their own wellbeing. Facilitated by an experienced trainer with expertise in mental health and youth engagement, the session blends clinical understanding with real-world tools and compassionate communication strategies.

What you’ll learn:

• A clear overview of eating disorders—including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders).
• Risk factors and warning signs to look out for in young people.
• How to approach sensitive conversations around food, body image, and self-worth.
• The impact of diet culture, media, and trauma on eating behaviours.
• Strategies for early intervention, appropriate signposting, and safeguarding.
• Tools to protect your own mental health and manage emotional impact in supporting roles.

By attending, you will:

• Feel more confident recognising and responding to early signs of disordered eating.
• Gain practical skills for offering non-judgmental, youth-appropriate support.
• Be better equipped to create safe, informed, and recovery-supportive environments.
• Understand how to look after your own wellbeing while supporting others.

Please be aware that some of the information presented during the training may involve sensitive content. If you have any concerns or are unsure about the material, please feel free to speak with our coordinator for more details.

Your wellbeing is our priority, and we are here to support you throughout the training.

Parking is free and available and refreshments will be provided.

Please reach out to Nataliia Turban at nataliia.turban@oxfordshireyouth.org with any further questions you may have.

Any other questions?