Neurocircle - ARFID. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder FACE TO FACE

Neurocircle is a support group for family, friends and carers of Neurodivergent individuals, both adults and children. Sessions consist of guest speakers, advice and support drop-ins and a warm and friendly environment for a cup of tea and a chat.

If you would like to attend Virtually: Please sign up to the link below:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1777827853969?aff=oddtdtcreator

ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)

🎤 Guest Speaker: Kirk Anderson

We are pleased to welcome Kirk Anderson, a qualified Learning Disability Nurse and Specialist Keyworker currently working with the Integrated Care Board. With a background in Community CAMHS and neurodevelopmental services, Kirk will offer valuable clinical insight and real-world experiences of supporting families dealing with ARFID.

He will share:

• Professional insights into ARFID within the context of neurodivergence
• Practical advice for caregivers to support
• Q&A to answer your specific concerns

🌟 Session Objectives:

By the end of the session, participants will:

• Understand what ARFID is and how it differs from other eating disorders.
• Recognize the potential risks and impacts of ARFID on physical and mental health.
• Learn effective caregiver support strategies for individuals with ARFID.
• Engage with a professional speaker to gain insights from clinical and lived experiences.
• Connect with other caregivers for shared support and resources.

We will explore what ARFID is, how it differs from other eating disorders, Co-occurring neurodivergent conditions (e.g., autism, ADHD, sensory processing issues) and the unique challenges it presents to families.

Caregivers will learn about the emotional and physical risks associated with ARFID, including nutritional issues, anxiety, and social impacts, as well as ways to support loved ones within the healthcare system and at home:

Creating a low-pressure mealtime environment

Sensory-friendly food exposure techniques

Differences between ARFID and other eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia)

Group Discussion

• What has helped your child feel more comfortable at mealtimes?
• What challenges do you face?
• What support do you need as a caregiver?

Who Can AttendThese sessions are open to anyone who supports a neurodiverse person, diagnosed or self-identified.—whether you’re a parent, sibling, partner, extended family member, or caregiver. No prior registration with Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind is required; simply drop in when you can.

Our AimNeurocircle’s goal is to build a supportive community where caregivers and loved ones can find connection, reduce isolation, and strengthen their ability to provide care while also caring for themselves.

This space is built to hold, hear, and uplift each other. Whether you feel like talking or just listening, your presence is welcome and valued.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on [email protected] and keep an eye on our Eventbrite page for upcoming sessions.

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Host or Publisher Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind