Epilepsy Action
Epilepsy Action is the UK’s largest member-led epilepsy organisation. Established in 1950 as British Epilepsy Association, we aim to raise awareness of epilepsy, provide support, advice and information to people living with the condition and to campaign for improved services and treatment.
An estimated 456,000 people in the UK have epilepsy - around one person in every 131. The complexity of the condition means that there are high misdiagnosis rates (between 20 and 31 per cent) and difficulties in achieving the best quality of care and treatment.
Added to this are the widespread misunderstandings about epilepsy, often resulting in stigma and discrimination, and very poor levels of investment in research and health care services.
While many people with epilepsy are able to live full and active lives, too many face problems with ineffective treatment, persistent and unacceptable side-effects from medication, difficulty in gaining education and employment and a non-existent or damaged social life.
Epilepsy Action works to achieve better treatment, an end to discrimination and an environment where all people with epilepsy have the same economic and social opportunities as people without epilepsy.
In 2007, over 731,000 people directly used our services. We reach these people through our Freephone and Email Helplines, our extensive range of literature and materials, conferences, seminars and events, our UK-wide network of branches and volunteers, the Sapphire Epilepsy Specialist Nurse scheme, our online community and the website.
Some Facts About Epilepsy Action
A charitable and independent organisation founded in 1950 to improve the lives of people with epilepsy in the community.
The largest member-led epilepsy organisation in the UK.
Directly helped over 731,000 people last year.
This website receives approximately 55,000 visits every month.
Epilepsy Helpline - freephone 0808 800 5050 or helpline@epilepsy.org.uk - provides confidential advice and information to members of the public and professionals on many aspects of epilepsy.
A new online live advice and information service can be accessed through our website (www.epilepsy.org.uk/liveadvice).
National network of around 100 self-help branches including several PACE groups (Parents and Carers of Children with Epilepsy) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, to provide local support.
Dedicated accredited volunteers throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Offers a range of literature, videos, DVDs and CDs covering all aspects of epilepsy. Leaflets available in Bengali, Cantonese, Gujarati, Hindi, Kurdish, Punjabi, Somali, Urdu, French and Turkish. Other languages are planned.
Membership - To enjoy regular magazines and updates, access to our online memberzone and free personal accident insurance, join Epilepsy Action as a member from only £17 a year for standard membership (there is a reduced rate of £11 for people claiming benefits, receiving a pension or in full time education) and £40 a year for professional membership. Call, email or join online now. .
Publishes two membership magazines: Epilepsy Today and Epilepsy Professional
Initiated and administers the Sapphire Nurse Scheme which since 1995 has funded 81 epilepsy specialist nurses across the UK.
Undertakes a wide range of conferences and educational activities each year.
How to obtain further information
Research your own information on our extensive website: www.epilepsy.org.uk.
Write to us, enclosing a self-addressed envelope.
Speak to an advisor on our Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050.