JOIN AS A MENTEE

If you are someone who is struggling with your body image and/or an eating disorder, we know how scary and isolating it can be. We also know that it can feel impossible to explain how you are feeling and to take the next step in trying to access support.

We want to be there for you. 

You don’t have to do this alone.

How We Can Help

We can help you by providing:

  • A safe space to talk honestly about your feelings and experiences

  • Comfort and support from someone who truly understands

  • Encouragement to take effective steps that work for your healing journey

  • Expert advice informed by clinicians and lived experience experts in the field

  • A safeguarding team on hand at all times to ensure you receive the right support whatever your needs

How It Works

Once you have signed up, we match you with a lived experience Mentor who has been fully vetted and trained by us, and who can walk alongside you, providing an empathetic listening ear, as you take the next step in your healing journey.

Our Mentoring programme lasts for 12 weeks. Once you have been matched with a Mentor, they will organise a time that suits you both, where you can chat each week. But don’t worry, our Mentors are flexible and happy to accommodate your needs and changes to your schedule. Additionally, if you need to send a message throughout the week* or Access Crisis Support, you will have access to the Been There app 24/7.

*Mentor responses may be limited to the agreed time. Crisis support and chat monitoring will be available at all times.

Finally, you will complete a short survey at the beginning, during, and at the end of your time with Been There. This is so that we can help you in the best way possible, and continually improve based on your experiences and needs. No information will be shared without your express consent as per our Privacy Policy.

How You Can Sign Up

  • Complete the application form via the link below

  • Tell us a little about yourself

What Happens Next

  • We will match you with a Peer Mentor who has been through similar experiences

  • Chat weekly via secure messages for 12 weeks. No pressure, no judgement - just a safe space to talk.

Eligibility Criteria

Been There is available for all adults (18+) who ar struggling with body image concerns, disordered eating or eating disorders.

You don’t need a diagnosis, and you don’t need to be in crisis to reach out.

If you are under 18 and interested in our service, we are sorry we cannot support you now. However, we hope that you can find the support you are looking for and encourage you to open up even if it feels hard. We are rooting for you too!

What Happens Next

  • Peer Mentors are not therapists

  • Been There is not a crisis service

  • Chats are confidential and monitored for safety

  • The service is completely free

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Been There app safe?

Absolutely. Every Peer Mentor is background-checked, trained, and supported. We take safety seriously and will remove anyone who misuses the app.

Protecting your information is a top priority. We have strong data protection and information security policies and measures in place to ensure your information is protected to the highest standards. All our team members follow a strict confidentiality policy to safeguard your privacy.

Follow these links to view our Privacy Policy and Community Guidelines.

What makes the app secure?

The app uses a secure, encrypted chat environment. Only you, your Peer Mentor, and our Safeguarding Moderators can see your conversations. The only exception is if your Mentor believes you or someone else may be at risk. In such cases, we will always try to speak to you first before taking any action, to keep you informed and supported.

Can I stay anonymous?

Yes! You don't need to share your real name within the app and are free to choose the display name you use. You can also choose from generic profile pictures.

Can I meet my Peer Mentor in person?

No. Our Peer Mentors are trained to provide online support. They do not have the relevant training or clearance to meet you in person and therefore, for everyone's safety, all support must stay within our app.

How much does Been There cost?

Been There is completely free. We believe that nobody should be prevented from accessing support due to their financial circumstances and therefore, we work hard to make sure that we can provide care for you without cost.

However, this does mean we rely on the generosity of funders and supporters of our cause. If you would like to help us continue to support others for free, you can find out more about how you can support our cause here.

What if my Peer Mentor isn't available when I need them?

Our Peer Mentors are all volunteers and therefore, like all of us, they have other commitments which require their energy and time. This is why we ask them to arrange and commit to a weekly chat slot that works for you and for them. They are not expected or bound to reply to any messages outside of your scheduled weekly chat time, however, like you, they have access to the chat 24/7 and may make non-binding arrangements with Mentees based on their own availability.

For urgent support, please visit the Crisis Resources page on our website.

What if I don’t click with my Mentor?

That can happen sometimes. Just email us at [email protected] and we'll help you find a better fit. And don’t worry, you will still receive a full 12 weeks of Mentoring!

Will my Peer Mentor see my contact details?

No. All communication stays within the app - no personal information is ever shared.

Are Peer Mentors supervised?

Yes. Every Peer Mentor is supported by a dedicated Peer Mentor Lead, who provides guidance and fosters a supportive community. In addition, our Safeguarding Leads and Chat Moderators are available to offer support whenever needed. Peer Mentors also take part in regular clinical supervision sessions with a trained mental health professional to ensure they feel supported and confident in their role.

What if I want to stop?

You're free to stop communicating and leave the app at any time. If you have concerns or want to switch Peer Mentors, you can email [email protected]. However, if you would like to stop, we ask that you let your Mentor know so that they are free to match with someone else who needs their support.

How do I contact the Been There team?

Just email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help.

2026 Been There - All Rights Reserved | Been There is a registered charity no. 1191044