ADVICE and information about epilepsy is now available at the touch of a button thanks to a new text message service launched this week.

Epilepsy Action, the UK's largest member-led epilepsy organisation, has introduced the new service to ensure advice and information about epilepsy is as accessible as possible.

The system allows people to text questions to the Epilepsy Helpline from their mobile phone. A trained member of Epilepsy Action's advice and information team will then send a reply within 24 hours (on working days).

Amanda Stoneman, Epilepsy Action's advice and information services officer, said: "We are delighted to announce the launch of this new service. We recognise that whereas some people may feel more comfortable talking to our helpline advisers over the phone, others may prefer to text.

"We are always looking for new ways to reach people with an interest in epilepsy, and to improve access to Epilepsy Action's wealth of advice and information services."

People who would like to use the new text service should save the following number to their mobile phone: 07797 805390.

You will be charged at your usual rate for any texts you send. Replies are free.