Young Epilepsy Joins the AMRC

We are delighted to announce that Young Epilepsy has joined the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) as an Introductory Member marking a significant step forward in our commitment to driving research and placing it at the heart of our organisation. 

The importance of research 

Epilepsy is a condition that affects over 100,000 children and young people in the UK. Research into the impact, causes, and treatments of epilepsy is crucial for improving the lives of those affected. By joining the AMRC, we are taking a pivotal step towards enhancing our research capabilities and driving forward our mission to better understand and treat childhood epilepsy. 

About the AMRC 

The AMRC is a membership organisation dedicated to supporting medical research charities in saving and improving lives through research and innovation. They ensure that member charities fund the best research by developing guides, providing training, and auditing funding processes. The AMRC unites and champions the sector, driving positive change in the research and health landscape. 

Benefits of Our Membership 

Influence: 

• We will have a collective voice in consultations and inquiries, ensuring that the perspectives of our community are heard and acted upon. 
• Our stance on key sector issues will be communicated through position statements, helping to drive positive change. 

Connect: 

• We will participate in meetings, networks, and events that connect member charities and key stakeholders, fostering collaborations that deliver benefits to patients sooner. 

Support: 

• We will receive guidance and training to help us meet the Full membership criteria. 
• Our member charities have access to an open publishing platform called Health Open Research, enabling them to openly and rapidly publish the results of research they fund. 

Our Research Focus 

Young Epilepsy remains dedicated to understanding childhood epilepsies, advancing treatments, and providing outstanding support. Our research partnership, led by Professor Helen Cross OBE, focuses on three key workstreams: 

1. Understanding Childhood Epilepsies: 

Around half of people diagnosed with epilepsy never learn the cause of it. Early diagnosis is crucial for better management and treatment of the condition. 
 

2. Outstanding Treatment: 

Epilepsy treatments have not changed significantly in recent years. We aim to make advances in imaging, surgery, dietetics, genomics, targeted treatments, and new medicines to effectively treat and potentially cure epilepsy. 
 

3. Outstanding Support: 

Beyond treatment, we address the wider challenges associated with growing up with epilepsy. We aim to put in place the right systems and supports for children, young people, and their families. 

Find out more about our research here.