A unique first aid awareness class, focusing on seizure response, was recently held in Yeovil to equip families caring for children with epilepsy with essential emergency skills. This event was the result of a dynamic partnership between Emma Christie, a dedicated local epilepsy specialist nurse; Mini First Aid Dorset and East Somerset; and Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, whose generous funding made the event possible.
Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, founded in memory of the iconic author’s commitment to helping seriously ill children, provides specialized nursing support across the UK. Since its establishment in 1991 by Felicity Dahl and Sir Quentin Blake, the Charity has collaborated closely with the NHS, offering the expertise of over 150 nurse specialists, including 40 epilepsy nurse specialists.
In Yeovil, the charity supports nurse Emma, who plays a vital role in guiding children with epilepsy and their families through tailored care plans, practical advice, and emotional support. Recognizing the need for enhanced first aid awareness, Emma contacted Mini First Aid Dorset and East Somerset to deliver a specialized class tailored to real-life emergencies. Thanks to the Charity’s funding, 16 participants attended a class covering key first aid techniques such as CPR, managing unconscious but breathing individuals, and effective seizure response. The event was hosted at Yeovil’s Holy Trinity Church, which generously offered their community hall for the class.
Founded by Kate Ball, Mini First Aid began as a grassroots initiative to make first aid education accessible to families. With the support of Sara Davies from Dragon’s Den, the organization has grown into a nationwide network with 70 franchises. Their courses empower parents, carers, and even children, providing both practical emergency training and accredited first aid certifications, whether for work, school, or home.
Mini First Aid Dorset and East Somerset are proud to partner with Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity to ensure that families managing epilepsy have the confidence and competence necessary in an emergency. They continue to offer monthly 2-hour awareness classes at the Holy Trinity Church across the two counties, along with age-appropriate training for children and specialized qualifications for workplaces and paediatric care.
For more information about the charity, and to donate, head to roalddahlcharity.org and to enquire about first aid training at your workplace, school, or for your family, go to dorset.minifirstaid.co.uk.