National charity Epilepsy Action is calling all nurses who want training in epilepsy care. The charity is offering a number of training grants to help fund nurses through a Professional Diploma in Epilepsy Care.
The undergraduate distance learning course is offered by Leeds Metropolitan University, with the grants provided by the Nicola Pickard Memorial Bursary Scheme. The scheme is in memory of epilepsy specialist nurse, Nicola Pickard, who sadly died unexpectedly last year following complications during childbirth.
The training will earn nurses a professional diploma in epilepsy care. The course helps nurses to gain further knowledge, skills and understanding of people living with epilepsy. After the course nurses will understand how to interact more appropriately with those with the condition and their families.
The course focuses specifically on the diagnosis of the condition and the most common social and psychological issues surrounding it. It also includes the issues which are most important to people with epilepsy and their families.
Nurses can apply for a grant of £600 towards the cost of the course, which costs £750. Applicants must be qualified nurses who are working with people with epilepsy. For all applications, the nurse must provide a letter from his/her line manager stating that funding for this training is not available from their trust.
Gavin Barlow, Sapphire scheme co-ordinator at Epilepsy Action, said: "This is a great opportunity for nurses to gain specialist training and develop their skills. The scheme will hopefully lead to better to care for people with epilepsy."
Two grants will be awarded twice a year. The closing date for this round of applications is 1 October. For more information, or for an application form, please contact Gavin Barlow on 0113 210 8800 or email sapphire@epilepsy.org.uk Details of the course can be obtained from the course administrator on 0113 812 5918.