Charities

Epilepsy Bereaved

Epilepsy Bereaved exists to prevent unnecessary deaths from SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) and other epilepsy deaths. Although the majority of people with epilepsy should be seizure-free (if properly treated), there are at least three seizure related deaths every day in the UK. SUDEP accounts for just over half of these deaths, often occurring during sleep, with young people most affected. When SUDEP occurs families and carers often experience trauma because they do not realise that a seizure in itself can be fatal; the death is wholly unexpected and untimely. People affected by SUDEP say that our specialist support service which enables many to become active in the cause of the charity is a life-line to them.

As a result of the charities work since founding in 1995, Sudden unexpected death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), is now recognised by government, clinicians and in national guidelines which indicate ways in which risks can be reduced. The charity continues to actively campaign and educate on risk, but is also uniquely placed to take forward a dedicated programme of research.

For more information visit the website here www.sudep.org

Kids Company

Kids Company aims to promote and support emotional well-being. The mechanisms through which this is achieved are grounded within attachment theory and the importance of ‘loving care’. We believe that children and young people who experience trauma, abuse and neglect cope with their pain by shutting down their capacities to feel. The child who stops themself feeling distressed cannot again be emotionally hurt by trauma. The same child however cannot experience positive emotions, empathy or fulfilling relationships. Kids Company believes that punishing these children only cements their emotional coldness.

The strategy employed by Kids Company assumes that the healing process for these young people is only possible in the context of sustained relationships, where practical and emotional needs are addressed.

For more information visit the website here www.kidsco.org.uk