Charity fundraising sale

Balham resident and The Bedford join forces to BEAT eating disorders

16 July 2012: Balham resident, Rebecca Lisi, is on a mission to generate awareness of the growing problem of eating disorders and is raising funds for a support group for people with eating disorders which will be starting in Balham in September.

Over 1.6 million people in the UK suffer from an eating disorder, and the impact of this hidden epidemic is felt within every community. Which is why Rebecca is hoping to raise hundreds of pounds at a large sale of quality items and bric-a-brac on Saturday 21st July from 11am to 4pm at The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12. From brand-new to second-hand clothes in mint condition, from books and DVDs to household items, there is something for everyone at knock-down prices and all funds will be used to fund the Balham-based support group for people with eating disorders.

The support group will be open to people with all types of eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, people with compulsive overeating issues, carers, families and friends of people. It will be an open group and medical referral is not necessary. The group, which will be facilitated by Rebecca who is a Beat-registered and trained facilitator, will not offer treatment, counselling or therapy. What the group can provide is an opportunity to meet other people who may be in a similar situation and to share experiences in confidence, or just to listen to others.

It will be a self-help and support group where attendees will support each other by sharing experiences, thoughts, successes and problems.

Rebecca Lisi, who is training as an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist at the Minster Centre, says:

“With The Bedford’s help and the support of people shopping in the area, we are hoping to raise much-needed funds. This Saturday, I would like to welcome everyone to have a browse, and pick up some of the many fantastic bargains we have to offer.”

Speaking about why she is fundraising, Rebecca adds:

“Eating disorders can have a terrible impact not only on the individual themselves, but also on their families and friends. Many people, some even as young as six, spend their lives battling this awful problem and do not know where to turn for help and support. National eating disorder charity, BEAT, offers a lifeline for people for people with anorexia, bulimia and the many other forms this illness takes, helping thousands of people every year to deal the distorted relationships with food that can ruin their health and their lives, and the lives of those closest to them and our support group is being set up to help people at a local level.”

Rebecca, 31, who is due to graduate in 2014, has rallied tremendous support and has collected a wide range of items which are sure to be a hit with Balham residents. And with all proceeds going towards the support group, every bargain will play a part in tackling the devastating impact of eating disorders.

Rebecca ends:

“Although you may not be aware of it, there are people who seem to be leading normal lives, but for whom issues with food have taken over and are making their lives a living hell. We can’t just stand by and let this happen.”

To find out more about eating disorders, or to make a direct donation, visit b-eat.co.uk.

Contact Rebecca if you are interested in joining the support group, or for more information email [email protected]