Computershare Loan Services has donated £2,500 to Epilepsy Scotland to help people with the condition access benefits and improve their wellbeing.
The charity says that confusion over benefit entitlements is a major source of distress for those with epilepsy, and the donation will help them employ a new full-time officer who will provide information on their entitlement.
The officer will also help clients access financial support at the charity’s Welfare Rights Service in Glasgow and during home visits across the country.
Andrew Jones, CEO at Computershare Loan Services, said: “We are delighted to support The Epilepsy Scotland Welfare Rights Service through our charity donations fund.
“They’re a fantastic charity that provides targeted support for people with the condition across Scotland, empowering them to live a life far freer from distress.”
Gemma Fleet, fundraising manager at Epilepsy Scotland, added: “Stress, anxiety and sleeplessness can trigger seizures.
“By giving people with epilepsy the specialist support they need, we aim to reduce the negative emotional impact of navigating the benefits system, and help increase clients’ levels of financial security to enable them to live happier and healthier lives.”
The charity argues that by supporting people with epilepsy on a one-to-one basis, there is also a saving to health and social care expenditure in the long-term.
The donation will also enable the charity’s new officer to liaise with agencies and medics to gather information and help support clients’ claims and appeals.
Last year, Epilepsy Scotland secured over £700,000 for its clients.
Pictured (L-R): Frances Brown and Tracey Millar, who are both welfare rights officers at Epilepsy Scotland with Lee Usher, debt advice strategy manager at Computershare.