Epilepsy Action, the UK’s largest member-led epilepsy organisation, is looking for applicants to apply for funding from its ‘Diamond Projects’ scheme.
Diamond Projects have been set up to mark Epilepsy Action’s sixtieth anniversary. The scheme aims to help improve the lives of nearly half a million people with epilepsy in the UK. The next round of applications opens on 1 April 2011. The closing date is 31 May 2011.
The scheme is open to anyone who wishes to run, or continue, a community-based project that benefits people with epilepsy. These might be voluntary and community groups, not-for-profit organisations with an interest in epilepsy, schools or health organisations. Projects must demonstrate how they will contribute to improving the lives of people with epilepsy.
Grants of up to £5,000 will be awarded to local or national UK-based projects. Epilepsy Action hopes to support at least 10 Diamond Projects each year for three years, giving total grants of up to £150,000. Funding cannot be used to fund activities or services that a group or organisation has a statutory responsibility to provide.
Philip Lee, chief executive of Epilepsy Action, said: “These Diamond Projects are an exciting new opportunity for groups wanting to, or already, supporting people with epilepsy. The grants will give those who want to make a real difference to the lives of people with epilepsy in their community the chance to do so.”
Five projects are already underway. These include schemes to encourage young people with epilepsy to get involved with activities to reduce their isolation, and to help GPs, local nurses and social workers understand epilepsy. Another project aims to supply information on DVDs to patients with epilepsy and learning disabilities. This is to aid communication so they can reduce anxiety when going for electroencephalogram (EEG) tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. In addition, an NHS Trust will provide support packs to the newly diagnosed, and an epilepsy support group will be set up.
Epilepsy is one of the most common serious neurological conditions in the UK. Epilepsy Action directly helps more than 845,000 people each year through a range of services. These include its advice and information service, specialist nurse scheme and Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050.
For more information, to confirm eligibility or to apply for funding visit www.epilepsy.org.uk/diamondprojects