Women’s officer Lily Grimshaw launched the “Body-Neutrality” campaign last week during Eating Disorder Awareness Week. The campaign aims to raise awareness about diet culture and break down stigma about eating disorders.
Grimshaw said to Forge Press: “The main messaging of the campaign explains to students that it is so important to recognise that we are more than our physical appearance and ability. Our worth does not come from what we can or cannot do, or what we look like, but from our mere existence.
“I also wanted the campaign to raise awareness about the ways in which society treats certain bodies. Trans people, people of colour, people with disabilities all face significant barriers to social acceptance and inclusion and it is these systems of oppression which we must fight against.”
As part of Eating Disorders Awareness week, the campaign aims to tackle existing stigmas surrounding eating disorders. The myth-busting section of the web page highlights some of the common misconceptions about disordered eating which often leads to these issues not being addressed or taken seriously.
Grimshaw added: “Once society has a better understanding of how eating disorders emerge and the effects that diet culture has on individual self-image, we will then be in a better position to tackle this crisis.
“This conversation should not end with this campaign and I want students to feel that they can access the services and support if they need to. Living with an eating disorder is isolating and overwhelming and I encourage anyone to reach out and speak to someone if they or anyone they know are struggling.”
The campaign also has information on services available to help students that are struggling with eating disorders:
Beat Eating Disorders is recommended by the NHS for both those that are struggling themselves, and for those that are worried about a loved one, pupil or co-worker. There is more information available from Beat, including a helpline that can be used to get more advice.
ABC (Anorexia & Bulimia Care), another UK based site, offers help and support for those with eating disorders as well as their friends and family, including an online support group for parents and carers of those with an eating disorder.
The university offers support through SAMHS, the Well-being Service and the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
