Implementation Insights from the PEACE Pathway Across UK Eating Disorder Services
Date published: 30/04/25
Authors: Kate Tchanturia, Dimitri Chubinidze, Fiona Duffy, Emy Nimbley, Zhuo Li & Joanna Holliday
Published in: Nutrients
Objective
Autistic individuals with eating disorders (ED) face socio-emotional, sensory, and communication difficulties that influence engagement and treatment outcomes. We examined how the PEACE Pathway—an autism-informed approach to ED treatment—addresses these challenges through tailored adaptations in clinical care.
Method
A qualitative multiple case studies design was employed, drawing data from clinical documentation, stakeholder feedback, and service evaluations.
Results
We identified eight core domains essential for implementation: pathway knowledge, assessment and planning, psychological interventions, sensory management, nutritional care, lived-experience feedback, family/community engagement, and staff training. These domains informed the development of the PEACE Self-Assessment Checklist to support the wider adoption of the pathway.
Conclusions
The PEACE Pathway offers a structured approach to adapting ED treatment for autistic individuals. The checklist provides practical guidance for implementing autism-friendly adaptions.
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