Richard Chapman, from Narborough, has received Epilepsy Action’s prestigious Lord Hastings Award in recognition of his long-standing service, including 38 years as a Trustee and three terms as Chair of the Board.

Established in 1990, the Lord Hastings Award is the charity’s most prestigious award, celebrating individuals who have made an exceptional personal contribution to improving the lives of people with epilepsy.

Upon receiving his award, Richard said: “I was really surprised to get a letter about the Lord Hastings Award. I never thought for a minute that I would be a contender for the Award, let alone a recipient.

“When you look back at the list of previous winners, there are some really high-profile names. You don’t volunteer in the expectation of recognition or reward for what you do. But it is really nice when something like this happens and also gratifying that others felt my efforts were worthy of such a special accolade.”

Richard has also been a member of a Talk & Support group in Leicester since he moved to the area in 2012, and prior to that ran similar groups in the Bristol area. Richard is keen to see more people at the group, who meet regularly.

He said: “We know that we only see a small fraction of those with the condition in our locality. The group offers a welcoming and safe environment where people can meet over a coffee and cake and share experiences and concerns with others who understand what they are going through and often find valuable information and experiences of others to help guide them through their issues.

“For many, it is just nice to know that they are not alone and can talk openly about their epilepsy when they feel they have no-one to turn to who understands. I would encourage anyone who is recently diagnosed, struggling to come to terms with the condition or just looking to talk about their epilepsy without being judged to come along and say hello. We would be pleased to see you.”

The Leicester Talk & Support group meets at 3pm on the second Monday of each month in Leicester city centre, at the cafeteria on the top floor of John Lewis. There’s no set agenda for meetings – the group aims to provide a safe space for people to catch up and chat. Members of the group have some form of connection to epilepsy and are welcomed to talk about this. There are around 37,000 people living with epilepsy in the East Midlands alone.

Epilepsy Action is a national charity, supporting people with the condition across the UK through their helpline, national campaigns, talking services and more. This includes a large network of Talk & Support groups which are run across the country, the aim of which is to enable people with epilepsy to connect with others who have similar experiences, in a safe and relaxed environment.

Rebekah Smith, chief executive of Epilepsy Action said: “Epilepsy can be a really cruel condition, and we know that people with the condition are more likely to experience loneliness and isolation. This is why our network of Talk & Support groups are so important, providing that safe space for people with epilepsy to connect with others with the condition in their communities.

“These groups are run by our incredible volunteers, and it’s the passion of people like Richard who keep them going. Richard was an invaluable trustee for almost 38 years here at Epilepsy Action and chaired the Board of Trustees on three occasions. He is passionate about spreading understanding of epilepsy through his community.”

“It is so important for people with epilepsy to have spaces to talk and be listened to, and our groups are also great for signposting to additional help and support. We’d encourage anyone with epilepsy in the local area to look into our local services. The Leicester coffee and chat group is a fantastic source of support, but we also offer virtual groups for those who may find it difficult to attend in person, as well our other services including a one-to-one Peer Support service.”

Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and around 80 are diagnosed every day. Epilepsy Action is committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, by campaigning for better services and raising awareness of the condition. The charity provides a national network of support groups, with expert advice available on its freephone helpline 0808 800 5050 and online at www.epilepsy.org.uk.

Anyone looking for more information about the group can contact Robert, the Group’s volunteer co-ordinator, on 07845 143427.