Young people affected by eating disorders can seek assistance at a new Sutton Coldfield help centre. Newbridge House, based in Chester Road, Streetly, is one of only a small number of units in the country offering specialist treatment for teenagers and young adults suffering from conditions such as anorexia and bulimia. Bringing together a multidiscipli-nary team that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, family therapists and dietitians, the large detached centre is designed to meet the needs of women and men from the age of 14. It contains a classroom for younger patients, therapy rooms and a domestic kitchen, along with a large garden. "We have created a welcoming, homely environment which is distinct from the institutional, hospital setting where people with eating disorders are often treated," explained Chief Executive Dr Richard Newland. At the head of the new centre is medical director Professor Hubert Lacey, who is one of the leading figures in the treatment of eating disorders. He explained how anorexia typically develops between the ages of 14 and 17 and bulimia from 16 to 22, but that without proper assistance, sufferers can become increasingly resistant to change and harder to treat. Eating disorders vary in severity and the way they affect each individual," he said. "Some people may stay in Newbridge House because they need a high level of treatment and support. Others will come to our centre for day care, receiving support and treatment but returning home every evening. We also offer therapy for people who will come to us on a weekly basis for an individually-tailored therapy programme. Our team are all specialists in the field of eating disorders with a wealth of expertise, which means we can offer the highest standards of treatment for people with the full range of eating disorders." Patients can be funded privately or by the NHS, but must be referred to the centre by their GP or psychiatrist. Anyone affected by an eating dis-order is welcome to contact Newbridge House on 0121 580 8362 to discuss their needs and arrange a visit. Find out more on www.newbridge-health.org.uk. | 
