Structured, supported feeding admissions for restrictive eating disorders on paediatric wards.

Background: Restrictive eating disorders in young people are increasingly requiring admission to the hospital and can be a challenge to manage on acute general paediatric wards.

Methods: We have developed a joint working model with Child and Adolescent Mental Health services (CAMHS) using short, structured, supported feeding admissions to supplement outpatient treatment in high risk or 'stuck' cases.

Results: We have successfully managed the majority of young people in the community avoiding lengthy, expensive, specialist CAMHS eating disorder inpatient unit admissions (tier 4).