£1.1 million project launches to explore restrictive practices in eating disorder care
University of Cumbria leads a new study to improve treatment approaches for young people
A new £1.1 million research initiative is set to explore and reduce the use of restrictive practices in the care of children and young people with eating disorders across NHS settings in England.
The study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), will be led by the University of Cumbria, bringing together researchers, clinicians, young people, parents, and carers.
It aims to examine how restrictive practices, such as restraint and feeding via nasogastric (NG) tubes, are used and experienced, and to find ways to make care safer and less distressing.
Despite increases in hospital admissions for young people with eating disorders, there is limited research into the impact of these interventions or how their use can be reduced.
Insights from Lived Experiences
Young people who have experienced eating disorders, along with their families and frontline clinicians, have played a leading role in shaping the study.
Adele, one of the project's co-applicants with lived experience, emphasizes the importance of the research.
"This research is so important as there are so many restrictive practices alongside physical restraint that are not discussed enough," Adele said.
She added: "The high emotional impact on individuals and their loved ones is significant. I am proud to be part of this project."
Joe Haward, a co-applicant and carer, reflects on his personal experiences witnessing restrictive practices.
"At 17, my daughter was sectioned and placed on a paediatric ward. Two male security guards were restraining her while a nurse inserted an NG tube," Haward said.
"The complexities of eating disorder care are clear. But we must do better. We need to find more compassionate approaches."
A Collaborative Approach
The research includes dedicated advisory groups for carers and young people who will work alongside the research team throughout the project.
Professor Joy Duxbury at University of Cumbria’s Institute of Health is leading the study.
“Eating disorders remain among the mental health conditions with the highest mortality rates. Understanding personal journeys and pathways to care including how restrictive practices are used is vital,” Duxbury said.
"Gathering as many lived experience voices as possible will be invaluable to this study," Umairah Malik from Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, said.
Study Phases
The study will span various NHS settings, including inpatient units, community teams, and paediatric services.
It involves reviewing existing evidence, observing NHS services, conducting interviews, workshops, and implementation phases to ensure lasting changes in care practices.
As the University of Cumbria expands into health-related research, this project aligns with its strategy to build local, national, and international reach in academic excellence.