A UNIQUE drop-in session to offer support to people with eating disorders and their carers will be held next week.

The session, which is the first of its kind in the Hambleton and Richmondshire area, aims to bring together those affected by eating disorders and offer them practical advice and help.

It has been organised by the North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) in partnership with the Carers Centre for Hambleton and Richmondshire.

Liz Hill , specialist Eating Disorders practitioner for the area, said: "Carers and other family members are usually the main support for those individuals suffering from an eating disorder. This can place great demands on their coping abilities.

"The aim of the carers support group is to provide the space and opportunity for help, support and information and to provide supportive discussion and sharing of experiences, thereby learning from each other.

"The aim of this first meeting is to determine local need and assist us to plan for future carer's support sessions."

Lyn Webb Thorus, from the Carers Centre, said she hoped the session would provide an opportunity for the centre and the PCT to learn how they can help.

She said: "This first session will be a one off for now but the people who attend will have the opportunity to access support which is already available. By working with people affected by eating disorders directly we will be able to develop future support services and networks, which will hopefully make a real difference to people's lives."

The session will be held at the Carers Centre on Northallerton High Street from 4.30-5.30pm on Tuesday.

For details on the session of the Carers Centre visit www.hrcarers@f2s.com or call 01609-780872.

Help and advice on eating disorders and how to access support is available from the PCT's Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800-068-8000.