Rapha research journal

Current thinking, considered with care.

A carefully selected journal of official statistics, clinical guidance and emerging research concerning autism and eating disorders in children and young people.

12.5%

of 17 to 19-year-olds screened positive for a possible eating disorder in NHS England’s 2023 survey.

1 in 100+

people are autistic, according to NHS information. Every autistic person’s experience remains individual.

Latest reading

Research translated for family life.

Each entry separates what the source reports from what families may wish to consider with their own clinicians and support network.

Eating disordersNHS England · November 2023

Eating difficulties among older teenagers

NHS England’s national survey found that 12.5% of 17 to 19-year-olds screened positive for a possible eating disorder in 2023. A screening result is not a diagnosis, but the figure underlines why changes around eating, weight, routines or distress deserve timely, sensitive attention.

What this may mean for families

For families, early observation and calm communication can support a quicker route to specialist assessment. Rapha can complement an established clinical plan at home; we do not diagnose or replace specialist treatment.

Read the NHS England report

Autism and eating disordersSystematic review · 2024

Why autistic experience matters in eating-disorder care

A 2024 systematic review examined eating-disorder treatment for autistic people and people with high autistic traits. It highlights the importance of understanding how standard treatment can be experienced differently and why care may need thoughtful adaptation.

What this may mean for families

Individual sensory needs, communication preferences, predictability and the person’s own account should inform support. These are considerations to discuss with the treating clinical team, rather than assumptions to make about every autistic person.

View the peer-reviewed research record

AutismNHS England · May 2025

Understanding current autism data

NHS England’s Autism Statistics publication brings together official data on referrals, assessments and waiting times through March 2025. The NHS also states that more than one in every 100 people is autistic, while recognising that autism is experienced differently by every person.

What this may mean for families

A diagnosis or waiting-list position does not describe a child’s complete needs. Rapha begins with the individual child, their strengths, routines, communication and sensory profile, alongside the family’s knowledge.

Explore NHS England autism statistics

Trusted guidance

Read the primary sources.

Research develops over time. Publication dates and source links are included so families and professionals can review the original material.

NICE: Eating disorders, recognition and treatment NICE: Autism support and management for under 19s NHS: What is autism?

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