To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the implementation of Action 29.d of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031; (ii) to detail the steps taken to ensure that the regional eating disorder service is accessible and effectively resourced across all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iii) to detail any planned actions to further strengthen support for individuals with eating disorders.

The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29 d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.

A precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29 d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.