Epilepsy Action’s Sutton branch has presented a selection of books on epilepsy to the borough’s Central Library in a bid to raise awareness of the condition.
The branch, which is currently running a campaign to find volunteers to fill key roles, has been working with the library to update its stock of publications on the condition, and donated 11 books covering all aspects of living with epilepsy for both adults and children.
The presentation was made by Amanda Kelly, secretary of the London Borough of Sutton branch, to Angela Fletcher, Head of Library and Heritage Services.
The branch was set up four years ago and was highly commended as Epilepsy Action’s Branch of the Year in 2005 for its work in the Sutton area, supporting people with epilepsy, their families and carers, and raising awareness of what it is like to live with the condition. It is currently organising a project to provide schools with information about living with epilepsy.
However, long serving branch officers are unfortunately unable to continue working in their current roles. Therefore to secure the future of the branch new people are now needed to fill the roles of treasurer, secretary and chairperson in order to continue this rewarding work.
Susan Mistry, Epilepsy Action’s regional services manager for London and South East England, said: “To people in the Sutton area the branch is an invaluable source of support in dealing with the effects that epilepsy can have on everyday life. Many people with active epilepsy feel a sense of isolation and a lack of understanding can be a problem. The branch meetings raise awareness amongst the local community and create an environment in which people can talk openly about their epilepsy.”
Susan adds: “To continue to run a successful branch, offering invaluable support, information and advice, it is vital that we fill the officer roles. The benefits of volunteering for a branch are numerous, including the opportunity to meet new people and to develop new skills, as well as gaining invaluable experience of working with a national charity at a local level and developing epilepsy knowledge.”
The branch meets on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm at the Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Avenue, Sutton. The main requirements of a volunteer are enthusiasm and commitment. If you can spare a few hours every month, to fill an officer role or to offer extra support to the branch, please contact Susan Mistry on 01372 744302, or email her on smistry@epilepsy.org.uk.