Media

Press Releases

2009

Embargo: 0.01 15 February

Epilepsy Information Now Available By Text

From Monday 16 February, mobile phone users can text their questions to Epilepsy Scotland on 07786 209 501.  This new way to get information is also aimed at younger people.  Many prefer their keypad to calling a helpline.

Chief Executive Lesslie Young explained: “It’s important to meet the information needs of young people with epilepsy in ways that suit them.  We’re aware this age group prefer to have information from websites and emails.  Text messaging offers a method of contact that’s geared to a younger audience.  Children and teenagers are comfortable using technology.  They find talking openly about their concerns less comfortable.  Text messaging bridges this gap.  It’s a new service aimed at helping young people at a vulnerable stage in their life.  Many organisations working with young people will help us promote the text service.”

Helpline staff will answer SMS messages within 24 hours (excluding weekends and public holidays).  The cost to send a text depends on the caller’s network but Epilepsy Scotland pays for each SMS reply it sends.  Every reply is confidential.

Helpline and Information Officer, Pamela Spence said: “The new SMS service fits snugly alongside our current email service.  The incoming text message will look like an email.  There’s a limit to the number of characters we can use so our brief reply will be clear, concise and factual.  Unfortunately we can’t go into great detail with the text sender, as happens with emails and phone calls.  We hope that people will feel confident enough after using the text service to contact the helpline and get more information and support.”

Ends

Notes to editor

  1. Epilepsy Scotland works with people living with 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 130 people.  We represent nearly 40,000 people with epilepsy in Scotland, their families and carers.  Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice, support and information.  People can email (enquiries@epilepsyscotland.org.uk), text 07786 209501, or download information from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
  2. Epilepsy happens at all ages, especially in childhood and teenager years. Several teenagers email Epilepsy Scotland for information and this volume is steadily increasing. However, fewer younger people call the helpline than other age groups.
  3. The growing trend is for people to access online services for news and information. Epilepsy Scotland values accessibility and will use the latest technology to meet the needs of 5,000-7,000 children and young people with 'active' epilepsy. For more details, please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.

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