TO get the latest facts about epilepsy, head over to the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness between 11am-5pm on Friday 20 November.
Epilepsy Scotland’s highly-trained staff will be there to answer questions and give away free useful factsheets at this public information event held beside the glass elevator on the ground floor.
At 11am, Highlands and Islands (including Moray) MSP, Rhoda Grant, will be at Epilepsy Scotland’s stand to launch a new initiative that encourages people with epilepsy to store ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact details on their mobile phones.
In the event of a seizure, this will assist emergency personnel to call the named family member or friend.
As a further aid for emergency services, Rhoda Grant MSP is offering free ICEberg wristbands to anyone with epilepsy to identify that the wearer has an ICE contact on their mobile device.
That same morning at the James Cameron Community Centre in Limetree Avenue, the national charity’s staff will also hold a free epilepsy awareness training session from 9.30pm – 12.30pm.
This no-cost certified CPD course will benefit health and social care, teaching and voluntary sector workers who want to update their professional knowledge and skills in supporting people with epilepsy.
The session is also open to individuals with epilepsy and to their family and friends.
During Friday morning, pupils at Inshes Primary School will hear more about how common epilepsy is and how it affects people.
Youth Development worker, Zoe Reid, will also explain some of the ways that pupils can help a classmate taking a seizure.
Epilepsy Scotland chief executive, Lesslie Young, said: “Epilepsy is a far more common condition than people realise. It affects one person in every 97 of the Scottish population and over 800 people here in Inverness.
“We know from calls to our helpline that a diagnosis of epilepsy impacts not just a person’s physical health but their emotional and mental wellbeing as well.
“Our innovative ‘Bridging the Gap’ project provides more than free information across Scotland to help people learn the basics about epilepsy.
“Through our awareness training, information exhibitions, seminars and school talks, we aim to equip many others to respond appropriately as situations arise.”
Anyone wishing to attend the epilepsy awareness training can book a free place by calling 0141 427 4911 or emailing IStewart@epilepsyscotland.org.uk
ENDS
Notes to editor:
1. Photo opportunity
Press photos can be taken at 9.30pm at the James Cameron Community Centre, Limetree Avenue, Inverness IV3 5RH. Epilepsy Scotland’s trainer and Epilepsy social worker, Michael Adair, will be available for interview beforehand and at the event.
Press photos can be taken for the launch of the ICEberg (In Case of Emergency, be empowered ring a guardian) initiative with Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant at 11am at the Epilepsy Scotland stand in the Eastgate Shopping Centre, 11 Eastgate, Inverness, IV2 3PP.
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 in 97 people. We represent 54,000 people with epilepsy, their families and carers. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers support and information. People can email (enquiries@epilepsyscotland.org.uk), text 07786 209501, find us on facebook, use twitter @epilepsy_scot or visit: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
3. For more details please contact: Allana Parker, public affairs officer, on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.
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Epilepsy Scotland contact details…
Contact: Allana Parker
Phone: 07884012147
Email: aparker@epilepsyscotland.org.uk
Website: http://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
