COMMUNITY TABLE The Community Table: Recovery Through Connected Eating
The Community Table (CT) aims to support people who are recovering from eating disorders. The program was developed in response to a service gap that was identified by members of the ED community regarding community-based meal support programs. CT was developed to bridge that gap by providing a structured and supported group program to allow individuals to work towards nutritional goals, engage in social eating and develop skills to manage meal related anxiety and distress. CT consists of three-hour group sessions, run over five consecutive weeks. The program is underpinned by Carolyn Costin’s ‘Soul Food’ principles of connection, pleasure, creativity and miraculous wonder. These principles foster a supportive meal environment and help our clients feel connected and safe. Alongside specific meal-support, the program offers opportunities for clients to develop new strategies for managing meal related and other distress. This is achieved through a range of sensory and mindfulness-based activities including craft, gardening, interactive games and cooking.
Eating Disorder Practitioners Amber Dwinell and Lucy Galbraith alternated in co-facilitating five rounds of the program across the year in partnership with facilitators from Queensland Eating Disorder Service (QuEDS). Peer worker, Laura also helped to facilitate one round. A review of the quantitative feedback over the last year reflected the success of the program. Several clients stated that they enjoyed the meals and asked for recipes so they could cook the meals at home. One client expressed they had never experienced the joy of cooking until this group. Across all groups, clients identified that connection was an important component of the group.
“The meal activities helped keep my mind off the food and they were really enjoyable. The clay was one of my favourites as I was able to make something meaningful to me as a loving reminder/guide to recovery” - Participant 2021.
The Community Table program will continue through the remainder of 2021 and into 2022, with continuing evaluation to ensure that the program is reflective of meeting client need.
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Eating Disorders Queensland
