SYTYKE – Developing Practical Competence in Eating Disorder through Work-Life Collaboration

We develop expertise in eating disorder treatment

Project Duration

1.10.2026 – 30.9.2029

Source of Funding

European Social Fund (ESF+)

Total Funding

€198,504

The SYTYKE project strengthens expertise in the identification, prevention, early intervention, and treatment of eating disorders across the social welfare, healthcare, education, and third sectors. The project develops work-based and multidisciplinary learning processes, particularly for professionals working with adolescents and young adults. Based on skills needs assessments and pilot activities, the project will create a continuous learning model and the SYTYKE model, which can be utilised nationwide.

The SYTYKE project aims to strengthen multidisciplinary, practice-oriented, and sustainable competence in the identification, prevention, early intervention, and treatment of eating disorders, particularly among adolescents and young adults. The target group includes professionals in the health, social care, and education sectors, as well as third-sector organizations, who encounter individuals with eating disorders or those at risk of developing them.

The project focuses especially on recently graduated professionals, supporting their professional development and well-being at work. It will assess competence needs, pilot tailored learning processes, and develop a continuous learning model supported by digital competence badges. This model will enable professionals and organizations to strengthen their knowledge and skills in addressing eating disorders.

The project consists of three thematic areas:

• Identifying competence needs related to the recognition, prevention, early intervention, and treatment of eating disorders.
• Developing multidisciplinary and practice-oriented competencies in these areas.
• Project management, communication, impact evaluation, and dissemination of results.

As a key outcome, the project will produce the SYTYKE Model and a competence badge framework, both of which will be publicly available and applicable nationwide after the project ends. The model can be utilized in continuing professional education, curriculum development, staff competence enhancement, workplace learning processes, and regional service development initiatives.

In the long term, the project will contribute to improved well-being and functional capacity among adolescents and young adults by strengthening professionals’ ability to address eating disorders in a holistic and sustainable manner. Enhanced competence will also support occupational well-being, while preventive measures and early intervention can reduce pressure on service systems and strengthen young people’s educational and employment prospects.