A New Hub for Specialist Care
The Riverside House Community Eating Disorder Services will serve as the central hub for specialist treatment in Dublin South and Wicklow, providing integrated care for adults, children, and adolescents. Delivered by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in partnership with St John of God Mental Health Services, the facility is designed to deliver evidence‑based interventions within a stepped‑care model, ensuring patients receive the right level of treatment at the right time.
Expanded Services and Day Programme
The centre introduces a new intensive day programme, offering structured treatment for individuals with severe eating disorders. This programme is intended to act as both a “step‑up” from outpatient care and a “step‑down” from inpatient treatment, providing a crucial bridge in the continuum of care.
Minister Butler described the facility as a “flagship for our developing national network of eating disorder services”, highlighting its role in combining community teams, the new day programme, and specialist beds at St Vincent’s Hospital.
Investment and National Rollout
- €5 million invested in the redevelopment of Riverside House.
- 14 specialist eating disorder teams now funded nationwide, with over 100 clinicians in place.
- Two additional teams announced in Budget 2026, bringing annual staffing investment to over €11 million.
Since taking office, Butler has overseen the expansion of the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders from a single team to a nationwide network, with further growth planned under the National Development Plan 2026–2030.
Strategic Vision
The opening of Riverside House aligns with “Sharing the Vision”, Ireland’s national mental health policy, and the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders. The HSE has also completed a report on future inpatient bed capacity, which will inform the government’s forthcoming 10‑year capital plan for mental health services.
Outlook
By co‑locating services for children, adolescents, and adults, Riverside House represents a major step forward in early intervention and recovery‑focused care. The facility is expected to improve access, reduce reliance on inpatient admissions, and strengthen community‑based supports for people living with eating disorders.
In summary, Riverside House is both a local milestone for Dublin South and Wicklow and a national benchmark in Ireland’s evolving approach to specialist mental health care.
Source: Department of Health, Government of Ireland gov.ie.
