User experience and perceived impact of the Eating Disorder Support App: a mixed- methods evaluation

Background Mobile health (mHealth) interventions offer opportunities to improve access to safe, evidence-informed support for people affected by eating disorders (EDs). However, challenges remain around sustained engagement, inclusivity, and integration with care. The co-produced Eating Disorder Support App, developed by the Eating Disorder Health Integration Team (EDHIT) from Bristol Health Partners, aims to provide trusted, accessible information for individuals with lived experience, supporters, and healthcare professionals. This evaluation evaluated user engagement, acceptability, and the perceived impact of the app on knowledge, confidence and support-seeking, while identifying opportunities for refinement. Methods A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted using an online survey and follow-up semi-structured interviews. Sixteen participants (people with lived experience, supporters, and healthcare professionals) completed a survey assessing app use, usability, satisfaction, and perceived impact; four took part in qualitative interviews exploring experiences in depth. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Participants reported high satisfaction with the app’s accessibility, clarity, and non-judgemental tone. Four themes were identified: (1) Supporting understanding, confidence and empowerment : participants described improved knowledge, reassurance, and confidence; (2) Navigating and engaging with the app : clear layout, navigation and practical features supported use; (3) Areas for development and concerns : participants noted initial information overwhelm and a desire for greater personalisation and expanded media formats; and (4) Creating an inclusive, sensitive and emotionally safe space : participants valued the warm, sensitive, and inclusive approach, while recommending further representation of neurodiversity. Respondents highlighted the value of the app as a trusted, accessible adjunct to care. Conclusions This evaluation suggests that the Eating Disorder Support App is an acceptable and useful digital resource that complements clinical care and supports self-management. Future evaluations should include larger and more diverse samples, longitudinal follow-up, and assessment of clinical outcomes to strengthen the understanding of impact. Continued co-production and lived-experience involvement are likely to enhance inclusivity, relevance, and sustained engagement in digital ED support tools.