BRUSSELS, September 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

• Recognising excellence in epilepsy reporting across the world
• Closing date for entries is 30^th November 2011

The Excellence in Epilepsy Journalism Award, a joint initiative of the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and UCB, recognises and rewards journalists from across the world who produce informed and compelling news and feature stories on epilepsy. Articles and broadcasts on epilepsy published between 30^th October 2010 and 30^th November 2011 are eligible for entry to the 2011 award.

"One key criterion the judges will be looking for is how journalists approach the challenge of striking the balance between a compelling read and a responsible, accurate and evidence-based article." said Dr Mark Porter, GP & Broadcaster. "We have been impressed by the response to the 2009 and 2010 awards which received entries from over 17 different countries, and are looking forward to even more this year. I would urge any journalists who have written, or are planning to write, an article on epilepsy to enter."

The 2011 'Excellence in Epilepsy' award is open to journalists from around the world who can either submit their own work or be nominated. There are three categories - print, online and broadcast media - which are reviewed and judged by an, international, independent panel:

• Dr Carlos Acevedo, Vice-President of the IBE Latin American Region, IBE Secretary General and Editor, International Epilepsy News
• Robert Cole, CEO, Epilepsy Association of South Australia and the Northern Territory
• Mike Glynn, President, IBE
• David Josephs, Epilepsy Advocate
• Dr Mark Porter, GP, Broadcaster and Medical correspondent for The Times
• Mr Randolph Siegel, President of Local Digital Strategy, Advance Publications, USA

"Epilepsy is often misunderstood by the general public and in this context it is vital that accurate and responsible media reporting on the condition is encouraged" said Mike Glynn, President of the IBE. "Since 2009 and the launch of the Excellence in Epilepsy Journalism Award we have been impressed and inspired by the high quality entries. These articles help not only to educate the public and bring epilepsy out of the shadows, but also deliver useful information and support to people living with epilepsy worldwide."

The judging panel will be assessing entries based on the following criteria:

• Helps to raise awareness and understanding of epilepsy
• Gives a voice to people with epilepsy
• Is conceptually or visually innovative or creative
• Is well structured, well researched and compelling
• Uses language responsibly when reporting or writing on epilepsy

How to enter:

Entries with completed entry form should be sent to:

Excellence in Epilepsy Award
PO BOX 65979
London
SW18 9JJ

or emailed to journalismawards@excellenceinepilepsy.com

To find out more information or to download an entry or nomination form, please visit: http://www.ibe-epilepsy.org/activities/excellence-in-epilepsy-journalism-2011

Certain local restrictions may apply regarding this award and the award is only available where not prohibited or restricted by local laws and regulations.

About the IBE

Founded almost 50 years ago, the IBE is an organisation of laypersons and professionals interested in the medical and non-medical aspects of epilepsy. The IBE addresses such social problems as education, employment, insurance, driving licence restrictions and public awareness, and supports its members through a range of innovative and important initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of people with epilepsy and their families. http://www.ibe-epilepsy.org

About UCB

UCB, Brussels, Belgium is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the research, development and commercialization of innovative medicines with a focus on the fields of central nervous system and immunology disorders.

Forward looking statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements based on current plans, estimates and beliefs of management. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those that may be implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Important factors that could result in such differences include: changes in general economic, business and competitive conditions, effects of future judicial decisions, changes in regulation, exchange rate fluctuations and hiring and retention of its employees.

SOURCE Excellence in Epilepsy Award