Local branches and groups

Epilepsy Action has an extensive network of branches, coffee and chat groups and volunteers throughout the UK which provide local support to people with epilepsy, their family and friends and professional carers.

• Northern England
• Central England
• South East England
• South West England
• Northern Ireland
• Wales
• Scotland

Coffee and chat groups

Coffee and chat groups are being set up all across the country. These give people living with epilepsy the chance to meet each other in ordinary venues like cafes, tea rooms and coffee shops. They offer a relaxed way to meet new people, share experiences and get information on how to learn more about epilepsy.

Branches

Run by volunteers, most branches hold regular meetings and offer a mixture of social events and informative talks and discussions.
For many people with active epilepsy a sense of isolation and a lack of understanding can be a problem. By coming along to a branch meeting people can talk to others who understand their circumstances. They can also help raise awareness of epilepsy in the local community.

Accredited Volunteer (AV) scheme

The Accredited Volunteers scheme (AVs) is a network of volunteers who are recruited and trained to deliver epilepsy awareness sessions to any organisation that would like to learn more about the condition. The AVs can offer a thorough introduction to epilepsy to a range of audiences. They also provide information about where to get further advice and support for the condition.

Awareness and information

The Local Services Managers and volunteers run a series of awareness and information days across their areas. Sometimes they are run with a branch or group, often as a way of raising awareness and developing a new service in an area.

Our work is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions and without that generosity Epilepsy Action would cease to exist. Branches and groups support a wide variety of fundraising events, and community fundraising, helping Epilepsy Action to continue its vital work.

If you would like advice or information on epilepsy, then please contact our freephone helpline or email helpline.

Throughout the year, a number of local events for people with epilepsy and their families take place around the UK. Find out if there is one of interest to you.

Find out what is happening in your local area including events, groups and branch activities in the latest edition of Trunk.