"Volunteers do not do what they do for recognition, but we think it is vital to highlight the work they do"
On Volunteers Week (3-9 June) Epilepsy Scotland is thanking its volunteers and recognising the value of their time, passion and skills in helping to raise awareness of epilepsy, as the charity marks its 70th anniversary.
This year is the 40th year of Volunteers Week, and volunteering is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It’s a chance to improve your confidence, learn new skills, meet new people, make a difference and be part of a dynamic community.
Sophie Clifford is one of the many volunteers the charity wants to thank. Sophie is from West Dunbartonshire and has been volunteering for Epilepsy Scotland for the past six years by helping at many events.
She started to volunteer after her best friend Samantha sadly passed away due to Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).
Sophie said: “Sadly, my best friend passed away from SUDEP. She had found out about Epilepsy Scotland and made use of their services which encouraged and supported both her and her family massively. I wanted to be able to give something back to them as a thank you for making a positive difference in her life.
“Becoming a volunteer was an easy choice, there are so many flexible options to lend a hand whenever suits you best. Raising vital funds to help Epilepsy Scotland continue to provide outstanding advice, support, youth groups and information services free to people in need is so important.
“I have seen first-hand how crucial their support is to people that have epilepsy and their families/friends and with the volunteers help, long may this continue!”
Epilepsy Scotland also wants to thank its Board of Trustees. They voluntarily give up their time, share their skills and expertise to help maintain and improve the organisation and what it provides.
Graham Loan took up the role of vice-chair of Epilepsy Scotland’s board in 2023.
He said: “I've been volunteering as a trustee with Epilepsy Scotland since 2021 and took up the role of Vice-Chairperson last year.
“The best part of being a volunteer is knowing that my efforts are making a difference to the lives of those affected by epilepsy.
“I work with a great group of people on the board from a diverse range of personal and professional backgrounds. We are totally committed to the long-term future of Epilepsy Scotland.”
Epilepsy Scotland chief executive, Lesslie Young said: “Without volunteers, and their very generous gift of time and skills, we would find it difficult to do what we do.
“Many, but not all people that volunteer with us have first-hand experience of epilepsy, whether that be through their own diagnosis or via a family member or friends experience with epilepsy.
“Volunteers Week is a chance for us to thank them for all their contributions. Volunteers do not do what they do for recognition, but we think it is vital to highlight the work they do and to acknowledge their crucial contributions to our organisation and to the people living with epilepsy across Scotland. Thank you.”
