Wera Hobhouse, the Member of Parliament for Bath and Chair of the Eating Disorders All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), has dedicated a forthcoming strategy aimed at preventing deaths from eating disorders to the memory of Zara Taylor. Zara tragically died by suicide in 2021, aged 24, after struggling with disordered eating for ten years.
Research from King’s College London highlights the severe risk associated with eating disorders. One in five people with anorexia nervosa who die, do so by suicide. Additionally, those with eating disorders are more prone to self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts compared to the general population.
In response, the Eating Disorders APPG is preparing a Prevention of Eating Disorder Deaths Strategy, which will outline comprehensive steps to reduce these preventable deaths. Wera Hobhouse emphasized the urgency of addressing suicide among those with eating disorders, stating that “suicide prevention must not overlook those with eating disorders.” She added that since the last election, there has been little government focus on tackling this issue within the broader suicide prevention framework. She urges for well-coordinated policies that can effectively save lives.
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Hope Virgo, founder of the campaign #DumpTheScales, shared a heartfelt message on the reality of living with eating disorders and suicidal feelings. She said, “Suicide and eating disorders are not just statistics—they are devastating realities that tear through families and communities. I know first-hand what it feels like to believe that suicide is the only way out." She called for urgent action to tackle stigma, improve support systems, and implement confidential inquiries into avoidable deaths from eating disorders.
Virgo concluded by stressing that eating disorders are treatable and that deaths resulting from them are preventable with proper care and attention. The new strategy dedicated to Zara’s memory aims to bring hope and tangible change to those affected by these life-threatening illnesses.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this article, remember that you are not alone, and help is available.