44 Days Left For Epilepsy Articles - Epilepsy Scotland

Main Category: Epilepsy
Article Date: 21 Dec 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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Journalists have only 44 days left to write about epilepsy if they want to win an award. Epilepsy Scotland will give a £500 prize and trophy for the best story printed about this common condition in the Scottish press between 1 February 2008 and 31 January 2009.

Communications Manager Allana Parker explained: "Our award recognises responsible, informative and well written articles on a subject that's rarely talked about. We want epilepsy to make the headlines. In promoting outstanding features that raise awareness of epilepsy, and educate readers at the same time, we've a winning formula for success."

1. Epilepsy Scotland works with people affected by epilepsy to ensure that their voice is heard. We campaign for improved healthcare, better information provision and an end to stigma. This common serious neurological condition affects one in130 people. We represent nearly 40,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice and support. Information, including all the award details, are available from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk

2. The World Health Organisation leads a public awareness campaign to bring epilepsy 'Out of the Shadows' because of the social stigma attached to this common neurological condition.

3. The charity's press award is now in its tenth year. It has been won by writers from national and local newspapers. Last year's winner was Cassandra Jardine with the Daily Telegraph. Epilepsy Scotland's award is supported by the Scottish National Union of Journalists.

4. Judges for this year's award include actor and author Bill Paterson, novelist Val McDermid, BBC Scotland's Head of News and Current Affairs, Atholl Duncan, STV broadcaster Stephen Jardine and Scottish National Union of Journalists Secretary Paul Holleran.

5. Journalists can submit one or more articles they have had printed about epilepsy during the set twelve month period. The closing date for entries to be sent to Epilepsy Scotland is 9 February 2009. The award presentation takes place in Edinburgh on 19 March 2009.

6. For more details please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.

http://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk