A Norfolk eating disorders charity is launching a new six-week course to help 'yo-yo dieters' or people who overeat for emotional reasons.

Norfolk Eating Disorders Association (Norfolk EDA) says there is a growing need to help people who are overweight or obese because of an eating disorder, and so it is also working with Demeter Kraaij, who has herself struggled with this problem, to launch a research project.

Ms Kraaij, from Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich, is appealing for adult volunteers who have experience of repeatedly dieting and putting weight back on to take part in the study, which will invlove listening to a recording of carefully chosen and carefully worded suggestions targeted at overeating.

The recording also includes embedded sounds that have been demonstrated to speed up learning.

Ms Kraaij, who is retired and has a degree in psychology and a background in counselling, hypnotherapy and drug and alcohol rehabilitation, said: 'I'm overweight and have had an eating disorder, and probably still have to some extent.

'I had some thoughts about the things that helped me get my act together, and this is about seeing if they work for anybody else and creating something specific which we can give to the Norfolk EDA.'

Sue Muspratt, therapeutic co-ordinator for the the association, said: 'Other than diets clubs, we don't think there's a great deal of support available for people to deal with this from an emotional perspective.

'We live in stressful times and people do often turn to food in the same way they that people turn to drugs or drink.'

The course, which is separate from the research project, will look at what triggers overeating, different ways to cope and how to cope with feelings.

Volunteers who are interested in taking part in the research can contact Ms Kraaij at demeterkraaij@gmail.com or on 07794 046345.

The six week course, which will have a maximum of eight participants in a group, costs �5 per week or �25 if paid in advance. To register interest, contact Sue Muspratt on 01603 767062 or email suemuspratt@norfolkeda.org.uk.

kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk