Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling launched a passionate and emotional message appealing for more awareness of eating disorders during one of his final appearances on Soccer Saturday.
The much-loved broadcaster has announced that he will be leaving his role at the end of the season after a long and successful run. The 68-year-old is known for his entertaining and engaging approach.
However, he has never been afraid of using his platform to send a strong message regarding a number of serious issues. That was no different on his penultimate appearance as he choked back the tears as the panel discussed mental health to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.
Talking on the sensitive topic, Stelling said: “This is a difficult topic, it’s my second last show so I’m going to have my final sort of rant if you like. I’ve got to be careful to get it right.
“There was a march this morning, this relates to [anorexia sufferer] Abby Davies actually. There was a march this morning in central London by the people who run the ‘Dump The Scales’ campaign. It’s led by the indefatigable Hope Virgo every year.
“More people die from eating disorders every year than any other mental illness. The Government’s lack of awareness and funding is a national disgrace. They decided to put calories for goodness sake on people’s menus.
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“Up to 20 per cent of all eating disorder cases end in death and the cycle goes like that. Abby said: ‘Boy, girl, woman, man, goes for help, they are told they are not thin enough, they are not underweight enough to need treatment’.
"They go away, they lose more weight, they go further and deeper into the mental morass that they’re in. They have suicidal tendencies. They are then told ‘You are now too thin to be treated’ and are offered palliative care for god’s sake.
“So we’re not going to help you but we will try and ensure you die comfortably. It’s 2023.
“Eating disorders are being swept under the carpet. No one should be dying of an eating disorder in 2023. Those with eating disorders need action and help and they need it now.”
Supporters took to Twitter in the aftermath to praise Stelling for his actions. One wrote: “Thank you @JeffStelling for this emotional, impassioned speech straight from your heart.”
Another was also full of praise. “Immaculately well said @JeffStelling! Appreciate that segment you and the 4 of you gave us just then. Its what's needed for us men,” they wrote. “Powerful words that mean a whole lot more to those who need to hear it! Well done chaps, and Sky Sports!”
