Epilepsy Berkshire exists to give support to those living with epilepsy:  to educate the community and organisations about epilepsy, to facilitate a sense of community ensuring that people do not feel isolated, to bring those together in a social environment where they can feel safe and supported giving support to the newly diagnosed, with help where necessary, such as guidance to organisations that can help them.

Epilepsy Berkshire is now looking to recruit a volunteer, for approximately two hours a week, to help support adult members of a recently-formed charity. We are looking for an enthusiastic person who has the aptitude and approach required for this social role.

The charity had taken its first steps, in setting up a support group at St Nicholas church, Earley, for the Greater Reading area in late 2019, early 2020. Sessions were provided to meet others in a safe environment. This is currently via Zoom due to Covid 19. Our ethos is to encourage all members to adopt an inclusive, friendly approach. In addition, other social activities are planned and take place post Covid.

The charity has been successful in carrying out fundraising and is discussing plans to use the funds raised for activities to benefit its clients. A volunteer with the appropriate aptitude and approach would be an asset in providing support and help in achieving the charity’s goals, with the existing officers.

What Qualifications and Skills are needed?

• Social skills, e.g. having empathy with those who are living with epilepsy, being a good listener
• Organisational, communication, team-building
• Access to a PC would be required for sharing communications

The volunteer would benefit from meeting those who are living with epilepsy. Initially, this would be via Zoom and later face to face. The volunteer would have the knowledge that there is a challenge to be met, and if successful, could see a major step in providing a significant improvement in community-based resources for this group. The volunteer would be self-motivated though guidance will be provided from other volunteers of the charity.

This role could suit a student or a person looking for a new career path or direction.