RCPsych analysis showed 16 ICBs are planning to cut children and young people's services by of £2.1m this financial year. 

Dr Ashish Kumar, chair of the RCPsych's Faculty of Eating Disorder said: ‘These projected cuts in funding reflect the concerns we have been voicing over this past year that recent changes at a community level mean decisions about services are being made without the voice of mental health, which could have dire consequences for patients. 

‘ICBs are responsible for planning and commissioning health services in local areas and so it is of particular concern that the recent changes in ICB structures no longer requiring mental health expertise on the board. In short, local commissioning decisions are being made without the voice of mental health. 

‘While we recognise the financial pressures being faced by both national and regional bodies, deprioritising the treatment of children and young people with eating disorders is not the answer.'

The prevalence of eating disorders in the UK has risen over the past six years, increasing from 6% of the population in 2019 to 7.5% in 2025.

A national audit of eating disorder service provision across England, published in December 2025, revealed 51% of children and young peoples' community health teams with waiting lists reported demand exceeding capacity as a primary reason for waitlists, and 23% reported limited workforce. 

RCPsych called for better engagement between NHSE, ICB leaders and clinical leaders on the implementation of NHS England's recently published national guidance on commissioning of eating disorder services for children.