Manager’s Report In 2018/19, we were faced with a decision: either sticking to what was comfortable and avoiding the ‘too hard basket,’ or choosing to change. A change process, blurred by historical differences, embedded in competition, perfectionism and fear. How eating disorder thinking can penetrate even our corporate culture.
What was right for our clients, carers, families and the wider eating disorder system was for The Eating Issues Centre (TEIC) and Eating Disorders Association (EDA) to merge and form Eating Disorders Queensland. Consultation outcomes were clear from service users - an integrated service approach where individuals and carers can access support, in a safe, client-centred environment, with a specialised focus on eating disorder treatment and support. Acceptance of change and moving out of the comfort zone needed to happen at a Board level first and foremost. Hard open conversations happened and although some board members moved on, we emerged with a Board invigorated by the level of discomfort, looking to embed values outlined in a brand-new strategic plan.
Our Vision: A Queensland free from Eating Disorders. Our Mission: To facilitate hope and recovery for all people affected by eating disorders.
Nurture: Creating an inclusive, connected
community that inspires hope and compassion.
Integrity: Working with deep respect, embracing honesty, trust and empathy.
Innovate: Creating together
Empower: Fostering a safe environment where people have the power to lead recovery.
OUR VALUES
Collaborate: Valuing diversity
through sharing learning among people with eating disorders, carers and sector partners.
to provide high-quality responsive programs, services and initiatives.
Then, teams were combined, exploring our cultural diversity and how to create a culture that was inclusive of all our service participants and practitioners. We stormed, we formed and we normed and we stormed…not too dissimilar to the recovery process, which is never linear. Just like recovery we held on to what was working, earmarked what we needed to improve and let go of the unhelpful behaviours.
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Eating Disorders Queensland
