National charity Epilepsy Action is again 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 Professional Diploma is run by Leeds Metropolitan University. The course offers professionals an opportunity to gain knowledge and skills to enhance their everyday practice. The bursary is in memory of epilepsy specialist nurse, Nicola Pickard, who died in 2008. Nicola was very passionate about helping people with epilepsy throughout her professional life. So far, the bursary scheme has made it possible for 10 nurses to study for the diploma.
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. It 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 £800. Applicants must be qualified nurses who have some experience working with people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Action particularly welcomes applications from nurses who wish to develop the skills and knowledge to work as an epilepsy specialist nurse. For all applications, the nurse must provide a letter from his/her line manager stating that funding for the training is not available from their trust.
Margaret Rawnsley at Epilepsy Action, said: "This is a great opportunity for nurses to gain specialist training and develop their skills without having to worry about the cost. We hope the course will lead to better care for people with epilepsy."
Two grants are awarded twice each year. The latest round of applications closes on 1 May. Applicants will be notified if they have been successful by the end of May.
For more information, or for an application form, please contact Margaret Rawnsley 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.