The Meath Epilepsy Trust provides support and a caring home for 70 adults who have complex epilepsy, usually coupled with a learning disability and in some cases, a physical disability. A registered charity founded in 1892 by Mary, Countess of Meath, it provides:

• Round the clock residential care in small, homely units that can accommodate a range of care needs
• Day care for Meath residents and disabled people from the wider community
• Supported living in the local community

The Meath’s mission for all of its residents, no matter how severe their condition, is to bring normal life experiences to them on a daily basis. It recognises and values residents as individuals and strives to support them in achieving as much as possible in an environment as close to home as it can make it. The day centre offers a range of activities including music and drama, art, literacy, IT, woodwork, sensory therapy and a fully equipped gym and also co-ordinates a range of excursions. Residents also access work experience and volunteering opportunities in the local community.

Based in Godalming, Surrey, the Meath draws residents from across the UK, but primarily from the south of England. Excellent transport links and a welcoming local community mean it is well placed to encourage residents to step out into the local community and build independent living skills. Wherever possible, the Meath encourages residents to progress to a point of living with support in the community, and has three bed spaces in supported living accommodation in Godalming.

A team of 120 staff work at the Meath, comprising care staff, medical staff (including a full time epilepsy nurse), administration and maintenance staff. Staff retention is high; some have worked at the Meath for many years and have fostered family-like relationships with residents in an environment they find truly fulfilling to work in.