Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 November 2025
922. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Health if she is considering structured day services that would bridge the gap from inpatient care to outpatient care for adolescents recovering from eating disorders (details supplied);; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [66031/25]
View answerThe National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders has progressed well with 14 of the 16 teams envisaged by the Model of Care now funded. The HSE spends over €9 million on eating disorders services annually. As a result, access to eating disorder services is increasing, with 25% more assessments conducted in 2024 compared to 2023 (562 vs 449).
Approximately 100 dedicated eating disorder clinicians from the National Clinical Programme are now working on the teams across the country, treating people with eating disorders every day. Enhancement for specialist mental health services including eating disorders is a key priority for myself as Minister, the Government as a whole, and the Health Service Executive (HSE). Under funding secured for Budget 2025, two additional eating disorders team are expected to be operational before the end of year.
Enhancing Eating Disorder services is a priority for me as Minister, and I secured funding from Budget 2026 for two new additional eating disorder teams. This will assist more people with an eating disorder requiring access to specialist eating disorder mental health services.
I recognise that day services can be an important support for people with Eating Disorders, and last month I officially opened the Eating Disorder Day Service at Mt. Carmel.
With reference to the specific information relating to the National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders as this is an operational issue, I have referred it to the HSE for direct reply to you.
