Epilepsy is a common condition that affects the brain and causes frequent seizures. Seizures are bursts of electrical activity in the brain that temporarily affect how it works. Epilepsy is a common serious neurological disorder that affects many people around the world. Anyone can develop Epilepsy, although its more common in young children and older adults.
Evidence suggests that Epilepsy affects around 600,000 people in the UK. This means that almost 1 in 100 people in the UK have Epilepsy. Around 87 people are diagnosed with Epilepsy in the UK every day.
Epilepsy is generally a lifelong condition however there is treatment available such as Anti-Epileptic drugs (AEDs) etc. that can help most people manage their neurological condition to have fewer seizures or stop having seizures completely.
Most children with Epilepsy are able to go to a mainstream school, take part in most activities and sports, and get a job when they’re older.
But you may have to think about your epilepsy before you do things such as driving, certain jobs, swimming, using contraception and planning a pregnancy.
Should you have an employee who has been diagnosed with Epilepsy and you require some guidance in relation to workplace adjustments and recommendations, please see the link below to our website where you will find further information regarding our Occupational Health Case Management Referrals.
Occupational Health – Case Management Referral
Alternatively, there are a range of charities that can also provide support within the workplace, including:
https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/employment
https://employers.epilepsy.org.uk/section/supporting-employees/
https://www.remploy.co.uk/employers/resources/z-disabilities/epilepsy