Beat, the leading national eating disorders charity, based in Norwich, has been awarded international funding by Baxter International Healthcare, in Caxton Way, which will be used to set up a pilot scheme to help migrant families.

A total of £18,000 has been donated for the pilot, which will be used to establish a support scheme for migrant families across the whole of the UK.

Mental illnesses, including eating disorders, are high in migrant populations and the fragmentation of family life, distance from traditional supportive networks and exposure to changed cultural influences are all believed to play a part in increasing the risks.

The charity will ensure information, which will be especially targeted at young people, reaches families through doctors surgeries and schools.

Susan Ringwood, chief executive of Beat, said: "This is the first international funding we have received for a project and the work is something we have been wishing to carry out for some time."

Nikki Martin, communications director for Baxter International Healthcare, said: "We are one of the largest employers in the area and it is great to be able to show our support to another healthcare organisation and help to make a difference to people's lives."

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