2 minute read
Manager’s Report
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.
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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.
As a new entity, we were very excited to have Dr Jenny Gilmore, the founder of ISIS - The Eating Issues Centre, to walk us through this magnificent cultural re-birth. Ashurst Lawyers came on board to handle all the legal aspects of the merger pro bono, and dtb! Advertising walked us through the creative process of rebranding at a very reduced cost.
Holding me as the general manager, in a process that was completely unfamiliar to my Social Work brain, was Treasurer Rex Brar and Donna Alderman from Business in Mind (our accountants). The struggle was real, the discomfort was scary, yet we emerged as true #recoverywarriors.
I want to make space here for the incredible EDQ team of warriors, thank you for “the serenity to accept the things you could not change, the courage to change the things you could, and the wisdom to know the difference”, you are my safe space to fall.
As a new entity, we went into a negotiation process with Queensland Health to help us create a ‘specialist boutique’ service for all our clients, as informed by our clients. We were successful in securing ongoing funding, being the only NGO funded by Queensland Health, supporting Queenslanders impacted by eating disorders.
We are looking forward to 2019/20 as a strong Board and as a cohesive team, alongside those in the recovery process, and their loved ones. We are a vibrant community, We are Eating Disorders Queensland.
Always with gratitude,
Belinda Chelius
General Manager - Eating Disorders Queensland
