Media

Press Releases

2008

Release date: Tuesday 10 June 2008

Want to know more about epilepsy?

Do you want to know more about epilepsy?  Then pop into Stornoway Town Hall anytime between 12.30pm and 4.30pm on Friday 20 June.  There’s free information, advice and Epilepsy Scotland’s Helpline staff there to answer your questions.  Plus full details of support and training by our national charity to help 40,000 Scots with epilepsy.

Communications Manager Allana Parker explained: “This kind of event is really informal and a good way to find out more about epilepsy.  People can pick up the information they need and also talk in greater detail if they want.  We hope people will come and share their experiences and tell us what’s required for the Western Isles.  Visitors can also speak with representatives from CAB, the Health and Information Resources Service and Advocacy Western Isles.  They can talk to a community nurse about any concerns and take away employment information in Jobcentre Plus leaflets”

Alasdair Allan MSP, who is Co-convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Epilepsy Cross-Party Group, welcomes this event to the Western Isles.  He remarked: ‘There is a great deal to be done throughout Scotland to promote public understanding of what epilepsy is and provide support and information to people with the condition.   Our Cross-Party Group is campaigning to promote the wider provision of epilepsy specialist nurses.

‘As someone with epilepsy myself, I would encourage people with the condition to go along to the event if they can.  Fortunately my seizures are now controlled by medication and I am driving.  But the organisers will learn just how complicated life without a car can be in the Western Isles.’

Epilepsy Scotland runs a rolling programme of public awareness-raising events across the country.  There’s no limit to the number of friends, family and carers you can bring!

Ends

Notes to editor

  1. Photo opportunity : A photo call will be held at 1pm on Friday 20 May in Stornoway Town Hall. Epilepsy Scotland's Communications Manager, Allana Parker and Alasdair Allan MSP are available for interview beforehand.
  2. Epilepsy Scotland works with people affected by epilepsy to ensure that their voice is heard. 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. In the Western Isles, around 204 people are likely to have epilepsy. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice and support. Information is available from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
  3. For more details please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.