A north-east MSP says young people suffering from eating disorders are getting help – but there is “still a long way to go”.
Dennis Robertson made the comment at the first Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services Eating Disorder Conference was held in Scotland.
The event in Perth brought together clinicians from throughout the UK to share best practice and attend workshops on connected subjects, ranging from cognitive therapy to how different conditions can contribute to eating disorders.
Mr Robertson has been at the forefront of driving forward efforts to help sufferers since his daughter, Caroline, died from complications associated with anorexia in 2011.
He has sponsored three member’s debates in the Scottish Parliament and worked closely with several organisations to raise awareness of the illness.
Mr Robertson said he felt “immensely proud” to open the first conference of its kind in Scotland.
“Eating disorders can be connected with a large variety of other disorders and illnesses, which comes as a surprise to many,” the West Aberdeenshire MSP said.
“The sharing of best practices and information among clinicians ensures that our young people are getting the comprehensive care that they need and that nothing is overlooked.
“I am in continual dialogue with ministers on the matter and am delighted that the government is committed to making progress.
“We still have a long way to go as young people are still dying – but there are many more surviving and achieving full recovery.”