Media

Press Releases

2008

embargo 00.01 19 May 2008

Cabinet Secretary gives epilepsy a stronger voice

What do Nicola Sturgeon MSP and epilepsy have in common? Well at 3pm today their paths cross when the Minister launches Epilepsy Scotland's new office at 28 Drumsheugh Gardens in Edinburgh's New Town during National Epilepsy Week.

There's another connection. Epilepsy affects 1 in 130 people and this common serious neurological condition impacts every part of their life. The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing is appropriately placed to be opening this new base for epilepsy services.

Epilepsy Scotland's Chief Executive Susan Douglas-Scott said: "We are grateful to the Minister for helping us to raise awareness of the information and support that's available to thousands of people living with epilepsy in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Just decades ago epilepsy was kept hidden, now people can see an office here in the New Town. Our local services contribute to the health and wellbeing of many individuals and vulnerable families. We offer a wide range of projects, from advice and befriending through to work-related issues and volunteering. It's good to know where to get help when you need it."

Cabinet Secretary Nicola Sturgeon commented: "Tackling long term conditions is a key priority for the Scottish Government and these new premises for Epilepsy Scotland will allow them to continue to provide much needed information and support.

“The Scottish Government is committed to working in partnership with the voluntary sector, to make real improvements to quality of life for the people and their families who live with long term conditions.”

Ends

Notes to editor

  1. A photo call will be held at 3.30pm on Monday 19 May with Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbing, Nicola Sturgeon, Epilepsy Scotland's Vice Chair, Helen Carmichael, Board member, Dr Richard Roberts and Chief Executive Susan Douglas-Scott. It takes place in Epilepsy Scotland's new office at 28 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh. The Cabinet Minister will be available for interviews afterwards.
  2. Epilepsy Scotland merged with Edinburgh-based charity Enlighten - Tackling epilepsy on 1 April 2008. Local services include information, befriending, awareness training, one-to-one support and classes for parents whose child has epilepsy. The merged organisation, Epilepsy Scotland, is managing and developing services in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
  3. 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 in 130 people.  We represent nearly 40,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers.  Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice, leaflets and support while information is also available from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
  4. National Epilepsy Week 2008 runs from 18-24 May and has raising awareness as its theme. Case studies of people with epilepsy who themselves help to raise awareness of the condition are available from the Communications Manager
  5. For more details or interviews with people who use Epilepsy Scotland's services please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.

Website maintained by Clicknetworks IT Support Glasgow. For more information about computer network support in Scotland.

caravan parks Scotland then you have come to the right place. At Turnberry Holiday Park we offer a huge range of static caravans for sale. Our Scottish caravan park is full of bargains from new caravans for sale Scotland to used caravans for sale Scotland, whatever you are after we are bound to have something to suit your taste. Our second hand caravans offer excellent value for money especially if you are looking for that special caravan holiday scotland by the sea. Our range consists of Willbery, ABI, Cosalt, Atlas and many more. If your looking for a golf break than look no further than Turnberry Holiday Park, which is situated right next door to the Westin Turnberry Resort and Golf Course. We provide budget caravan holidays in our recommended park, being Scottish Tourist Board approved. Family holidays in our park homes are great value for money and the park is open most of the year. Call us today for new used and second hand caravan scotland in our award winning Scottish Caravan Parks.