Why I Do This Work
I’m Veronica Kamerling, a mother, carer, and someone who’s spent over 22 years supporting families affected by eating disorders and mental illness.
My journey began at home. Both of my daughters struggled with eating disorders; one with anorexia, the other with bulimia and binge eating disorder. At the same time, I cared for my brother, who lived with schizophrenia. Those years were painful, disorientating, and deeply isolating.
But they also taught me something life-changing: families are not the problem; they are part of the solution.
When one of my daughters started recovery, I realised that our relationship dynamic was something experienced by many and wanted to use what I’d learned to help others. I founded Eating Disorders & Carers, a space for families who, like mine, were doing their best in the dark of mental health recovery.
Watch the video below to find out more about me and the work I do!
From Family Insight to System Change
Since then, I’ve supported carers across the UK through mentoring, talks, and workshops focused on recovery within relationships. I help people recognise when caring becomes co-dependent, and teach simple, powerful communication skills like active listening.
I also work with professionals to improve how services engage with carers. When I was a Carer Representative for the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Quality Network for Eating Disorders (QED), I’ve reviewed eating disorder services nationwide, offering insight into how to include and value families more effectively. I co-chair a Triangle of Care working group at a London Trust and contribute to various national advisory boards.
I have received a national award from Beat (formerly the Eating Disorders Association) for my contribution to the field of Eating Disorders. In 2013, the Royal College of Psychiatrists named me Carer Contributor of the Year, a recognition that meant more than I can say.
What I Believe
- Hope is key, even when things feel impossible.
- Carers need support to step back without guilt and stay grounded in themselves.
- Professionals and families must work together, not against each other, to support individuals.
This isn’t therapy or advice about food or medication. What I offer is grounded, practical, and personal which is the kind of support I wish I’d had when my family was struggling.
