Money raised from a recycling scheme will see an epilepsy charity dedicated to increasing awareness of epilepsy risks and tackling deaths from the condition receive a £12,000 donation.
The money was raised from recycled metals reclaimed from Haycombe Crematorium in Bath.
SUDEP Action is the UK’s only charity specialised in supporting people bereaved by epilepsy and provides counselling, help with the inquest process and involves bereaved families and professionals in research.
Epilepsy is one of the top ten causes of early death. Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy or SUDEP is often traumatic for the families and professionals involved.
Jane Hanna OBE, CEO of SUDEP Action, said: “This generous grant is a huge boost to our ability to be alongside suddenly bereaved families, to provide help for as long as needed and involvement in the cause of prevention of sudden young deaths during a time of rising need.”
The not-for-profit Recycling of Metals Scheme is run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) of which Bath & North East Somerset Council is a member.
With the consent of relatives, members of the scheme collect common metal objects from cremators such as medical pins, metal plates and artificial joints for recycling and the money raised is divided between ICCM members for distribution among charities.
SUDEP Action is the first charity this year to be awarded a donation from the council.
Last year a total of £27,000 was donated to The Children’s Air Ambulance and Josephine’s Star.
Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “This is a fantastic sum of money for an important charity.
“Praise needs to go to the bereaved families who gave their consent at a very sad time so that SUDEP Action can provide help to other people facing a difficult time.”
To qualify for donations from the scheme, charities are selected on the basis they have to assist the bereaved or those who are terminally ill.
Local charities meeting the criteria can get in touch with staff at Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium on 01225 396020 or via email to [email protected].
