The TEA Room
‘Thanks to the generosity of players of the Peoples Postcode Lottery, The TEA Room will provide teenagers with epilepsy a much needed support network that they can use anywhere and at anytime.’ Angus Purden, Peoples Postcode Lottery.
The Problem
There are an estimated 8550 children and teenagers with epilepsy in Scotland. The needs of young people are currently somewhat under-represented within the epilepsy community. While their medical issues are being addressed by the NHS, there is a real need for emotional and social support. Teenagers with epilepsy may experience significant day to day problems that can prevent them from living ordinary lives. In particular, the stigma attached to the diagnosis can be almost as debilitating as the disorder itself.
Social situations that young people encounter daily, such as joining a local football team, going out on a date and attending a concert, can become embarrassing occasions when he or she experiences a seizure. Even the fear of having one can put the teenager off going out at all. Young people face a complex range of issues that may not be easily discussed with their peers or families. Significant milestones may seem unachievable in the face of the challenges that epilepsy brings and the family overprotection that often accompanies the diagnosis.
What can we do?
Scottish Epilepsy Initiative was founded in 2003 by a group of doctors and scientists. Our aim is to help people in Scotland with epilepsy. Our work has identified the particular needs of young people with the condition. We plan to help improve their social skills thereby encouraging them to overcome feelings of isolation, addressing the stigma that accompanies the diagnosis, and stimulating healthy interaction with their peers.
What we are doing for young people with epilepsy in Scotland
The Valentine Appeal aims to raise funds to provide a range of services that will significantly enhance the lives of young people with epilepsy in Scotland.
TEA Room
The Teenage Epilepsy Agenda (TEA) Room is an innovative online forum for young people to interact with their peers, gain support and share their experiences of epilepsy in a safe and supportive environment.
To join the forum sign up today at www.thetearoom.org.uk
Equipment Fund
We will provide IT equipment for young people to allow them to access the TEA Room. To apply to this fund download the application form and the "Information for Parents" document from the right hand side of this page.
Field Worker
Scottish Epilepsy Initiative have employed Scotland's first field worker to work specifically with young people with epilepsy. Using the TEA Room as a platform, the field worker interacts with teenagers to discuss issues that affect their everyday life.