Type of service: Support groups and networks

Service URL: http://elearn.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/

POD (Peer support and Online Development) is Beat's online carer community designed to provide people supporting someone with an eating disorder with a space to learn, share experiences and find support. We have worked closely with our service users, ambassadors and eating disorder clinicians to help us to shape this platform, ensuring that the information we are sharing is clinically sound, as well as meeting the needs of those who will be accessing it.

What does POD offer me? POD is an e-learning platform and community for carers that provides you with online modules, resources and spaces to talk with peers to help you better support your loved one. Learn new skills: Through POD, you can access a wide range of interactive e-learning modules. Using a combination of written, visual, and video-based learning tools, you’ll learn more about the basics of eating disorders, the psychology behind what your loved one is experiencing, and what to expect from treatment. You’ll also learn about useful tools to support your loved one in recovery, such as motivational interviewing, the stages of change model, and how to avoid accommodating or enabling behaviours.

Engage with a community that understands You’re not alone in supporting a loved one with an eating disorder. With POD, you can connect with others who have the same experiences and worries as you. Through our peer support forums, you’ll be able to discuss what you’re learning, and share information, resources and ideas with others caring for someone with an eating disorder. These forums will be regularly reviewed by the Beat team to protect the safety of the community. Each week, you’ll also be able to access drop-in spaces to meet with Beat’s Clinical Associate Trainers, who’ll help you consolidate everything you’ve learned. Our Zoom workshops, Developing Dolphins, Raising Resilience, Harnessing Hope are bookable through POD, and you'll have the chance to continue conversations started in your group through our workspaces function. 

Part of larger organisation: Beat Eating Disorders.

Aimed at: Adult , Adult sibling, Child/adolescent sibling, Parent or carer of under 18, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Parents or carers, families, adults, Partner, Young person