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2008

Release date: 1 April 2008

Enlightened move as epilepsy charities merge

Two charities, Enlighten – Tackling epilepsy and Epilepsy Scotland, are merging from 1 April 2008.  Enlighten’s Lothian-based operations become part of Epilepsy Scotland’s services that help nearly 40,000 people affected by this common neurological condition. 

The recommendation to combine Enlighten’s local projects with Epilepsy Scotland’s national services, first made in October 2006, was formally agreed on 31 March 2008.  The decision to merge was unanimously supported by boards, membership and funders.

Epilepsy Scotland’s Chief Executive Susan Douglas-Scott said: “This merger makes us stronger and gives epilepsy a powerful voice.  Members tell us they want better healthcare, more information and greater opportunities for people with epilepsy.  By joining forces we will deliver a wider range of direct services often to vulnerable families.  We also plan to secure new funding and build on the existing innovative projects that already assist households living with epilepsy.  We welcome this exciting challenge where we continue to make a difference and transform people’s lives!”  

Enlighten’s Chair, Richard Roberts remarked.  ” Enlighten offers some great local services in the Lothians and Borders but it was becoming increasingly challenging for a small charity to sustain the necessary management costs.  We are delighted that Epilepsy Scotland can address this gap and take on management and development allowing Enlighten’s services to flourish and Epilepsy Scotland to grow.  We all have the same aim in mind - better and wider services for people with epilepsy across Scotland"

Minister for Public Health, Shona Robison will formally open Epilepsy Scotland’s new Edinburgh office on Monday 19 May during National Epilepsy Week.

Ends

Notes to editor 

  1. Epilepsy Scotland works with people affected by epilepsy to ensure that their voice is heard. As the national epilepsy charity, we campaign for improved healthcare, better information provision and an end to stigma. This common serious neurological condition affects one in130 people. We represent nearly 40,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice, support and information - which is also available from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
  2. Enlighten - Tackling epilepsy provided local epilepsy services in the Lothians. Based in Edinburgh, the charity offered a range of projects such as befriending, awareness training, one-to-one support for young people and classes for parents whose child has epilepsy. The merged organisation, Epilepsy Scotland, is committed to continuing services in the Lothians. We will strive to get funding for the services that people with epilepsy need.
  3. Epilepsy Scotland's new Edinburgh office is based at 28 Drumsheugh Gardens.
  4. For more details or interviews with Enlighten or Epilepsy Scotland board or members please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.

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