[WATCH] Government, community chest fund set up eating disorders clinic

The Malta Community Chest Fund led by President George Abela and Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi today announced the setting up of a centre with the aim to help people suffering from eating disorders and obesity.

Also present for the press conference were Health Minister Joe Cassar, Fair Competition Minister Jason Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary Mario Galea and Opposition leader Joseph Muscat.

The 'Kenn ghal Sahhtek' centre, based at the former Sisters' Quarters in Imtarfa, was specifically earmarked by the MCCF after Abela himself visited a number of treatment centres in Italy.

"We are very pleased to introduce this project," Abela said. "We have long been seeing the need for a centre which treated eating disorder problems with a more holistic approach. It's important that care is given to these persons away from hospitals, especially those for mental health."

Abela explained that patients could reside for a period between four to six months while receiving this treatment. "This will help them keep in constant contact with a multi-disciplinary team," he said.

Through a parliamentary resolution approved earlier this year, government and opposition passed on the land to MCCF. The concession deed was signed yesterday.

"We are now waiting for Mepa to issue the permits. We expect them to be issued shortly," Abela said.

He added that restoration and refurbishing costs will amount to around €2 million.

The premises will be refurbished to accommodate 33 beds - 19 for those suffering from obesity and 14 for anorexia and bulimia. The centre will be split accordingly.

In fact, different kitchen areas will be set up. The aim of the centre is to create a tranquil environment where patients would feel at home and safe while receiving the treatment they receive.

Outpatient services will also be available.

Abela said that while MCCF will cater for the equipment, the health ministry will be providing the medical service and cover the recurrent expenses of the centre.

From the upcoming budget, government is expected to allocate €1 million for the project, with the figure decreasing slowly along the years.

An NSO survey to which 2,008 respondents participated, found that 0.9% were currently suffering from an eating disorder while 2%  had suffered from an eating disorder in the past.

The survey shows that eating disorders are predominant among females. Males with eating disorders made up 1.2% of respondents. The most popular form is binge eating, with 57% admitting to it followed by anorexia with 34%. 13% suffered from bulimia.