Dravet Syndrome UK appoints first Head of Fundraising

Dravet Syndrome UK (DSUK) has appointed Tania Lewis as its first Head of Fundraising. Dravet Syndrome UK is the only registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Dravet Syndrome in the UK, a life-limiting and life-long form of epilepsy.

Claire Eldred, Director of Dravet Syndrome UK, said: “We’re thrilled to be appointing Tania as our first Head of Fundraising. We have created this new role to help drive the charity forward at a pivotal stage in our development. Tania brings exactly the mix of skills, experience and passion needed to help increase the impact of our work, by helping us diversify and grow our income, and build a sustainable financial model that will enable us to achieve our long-term strategic goals."

Tania brings a wealth of experience in fundraising and strategic planning. Most recently Tania was Head of Development and Communications at Citizens Advice Hammersmith and Fulham where she led the organisation to unprecedented growth, raising over £2 million in multi-year funding. Prior to this, Tania worked in qualitative research, events and marketing communications with a wide range of clients including British Airways, Lloyds Bank and AXA.

Tania said: "I’m delighted to be joining Dravet Syndrome UK at such a significant time for the organisation. I started working with the charity last year on an interim assignment and I have been inspired by the families living with Dravet Syndrome and impressed that this small charity has had such a positive impact in improving the lives of those affected by this very challenging condition. I’m excited to join the team on a permanent basis and I’m looking forward to using my fundraising experience to help support and empower more families, reach more health professionals and fund vital research."

Tania’s appointment brings the DSUK staff team to six, alongside a board of five Trustees. Both staff and Trustee teams include parents and family members of those affected by Dravet Syndrome.