A JERSEY charity has launched a new ambassador programme in a bid to raise awareness of eating disorders and extend its reach across the Island.
The programme brings together four Islanders – Anna Binet, Holly Jordas, Charlee Chambers and Sarah Matthews – who will help Jersey Eating Disorder Support spread its message and encourage more open conversations around eating disorders.
JEDS chief executive Karen Dingle and deputy chief executive Amy Dingle said the initiative had been created to help break down stigma and ensure more people know that support is available.
They explained that the idea behind the programme was to extend the voice and reach of JEDS across Jersey, while recognising that eating disorders can affect anyone, at any age.
“People connect with different voices and experiences,” Karen said. “Having ambassadors from different backgrounds, with different stories, interests and networks, means we can reach people who may not necessarily engage with a traditional charity campaign.”
“There is no pressure to do everything. It is about using their own voice, skills and networks in whatever way feels right for them,” Amy added.
The four ambassadors were chosen because each has something different to bring to JEDS.
The duo said that the ambassadors all genuinely believe in what the organisation is trying to achieve and are passionate about raising awareness of eating disorders and supporting people affected by them.
“Some ambassadors have personal experience of eating disorders or mental health difficulties, while others bring their own experiences, professional skills, platforms and networks,” Amy said. “We think that mix is really important because it allows us to show that recovery and support can look different for everyone.”
Some of the ambassadors also have a personal connection with JEDS and have seen first-hand the difference the charity can make.
The duo said it was “incredibly proud” that some of its ambassadors had that connection, adding that it made their involvement particularly special.
The programme is ultimately aimed at helping JEDS reach more people, increase awareness and challenge the misconceptions that still surround eating disorders.
They explained its ambassadors could also help reach people who may be struggling silently, as well as families, friends and professionals who might benefit from knowing that support is available through JEDS.
It also hopes the programme will help build a wider community around the charity, alongside its growing team of volunteers and existing services.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have a growing team of volunteers and now our Ambassadors, alongside our existing services, and we hope this network will continue to grow,” Karen said.
The charity said its most important message was that people affected by eating disorders do not have to face them alone.
“Recovery is possible and there is support available,” Karen added.
