Work and
Education
Practical guidance and resources to help teachers, employers and peers create safe, inclusive and understanding environments for people living with epilepsy, whether in the classroom or the workplace.
of people with epilepsy experience stigma, ranging from subtle biases to significant misunderstanding.
Supporting a Child with Epilepsy in School
Supporting an Employee with Epilepsy in the Workplace
Supporting a Child
with Epilepsy in School
To support a child with epilepsy effectively in school, teachers and staff should be trained, maintain strong communication with parents, and create an inclusive, safe learning environment.
Supporting an Employee
with Epilepsy in the
Workplace
A supportive workplace involves understanding the employee's needs, making reasonable adjustments, and ensuring staff are prepared to respond in an emergency.
Training and
Awareness
Staff Training
Ensure all staff (teachers, TAs, midday supervisors) receive training on epilepsy, seizure types, and first aid.
Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP)
Be familiar with the child's IHP, including their seizure triggers and emergency procedures.
Seizure Recognition
Know how to recognise and respond to different types of seizures.
Communication and
Collaboration
With Parents
Keep regular, open communication with parents about the child’s wellbeing and progress.
Parental Involvement
Encourage parents to share insights about their child’s needs.
Team Approach
Work closely with healthcare professionals (GPs, nurses, therapists) for a coordinated support plan.
Inclusive and Safe
Learning Environment
Classroom Set-Up
Consider safe and accessible seating arrangements.
Flexibility
Allow for extra time, rest breaks, or alternative learning methods when needed.
Positive Reinforcement
Focus on the child’s strengths and celebrate achievements.
Classroom Awareness
Run epilepsy awareness sessions to educate classmates and reduce stigma.
Buddy System
Assign a peer buddy for support and companionship.
Safety Checks
Minimise hazards and ensure safety measures are in place.
Tackling Bullying
Watch for bullying and address it promptly.
Normalise Experience
Support the child in feeling included and “just like everyone else.
Understanding
and Planning
Open Dialogue
EEncourage honest, confidential conversations about epilepsy and how it affects the employee.
Seizure Action Plan
Work together to create a plan outlining what to do during and after a seizure.
Identify Triggers
Help reduce exposure to common triggers like stress or fatigue.
Support Memory
Use tools like checklists and visual reminders if memory is affected.
Seek Advice
Involve occupational health or the employee’s doctor if needed.
Reasonable
Adjustments
Safe Environment
Remove hazards and ensure the workplace is seizure-safe.
Adjust Duties
Modify tasks or reassign duties where necessary.
Flexible Hours
Consider adjusted work schedules or time off for appointments.
Adapt Equipment
Provide tools that help the employee work safely and effectively.
Colleague Training
Train colleagues to recognise and respond to seizures.
Buddy System
Assign a trusted colleague for informal support.
Emergency Plans
Develop a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP).
Quiet Space
Offer a calm area for recovery post-seizure.
Safety and
First Aid
First Aid Training
Ensure staff are trained in seizure first aid.
Essential Supplies
Keep relevant first aid supplies readily available.
On-Site First Aiders
Have trained staff available at all times.
Accessible Toilets
Provide toilets with pull cords and external door access.
Fall Alarms
Consider wearable alarms or pendant alarms if needed.
Minimise Stair Use
Reduce the need to use stairs where possible.
Storage
Offer a personal locker for post-seizure essentials.
How Will an Epilepsy Diagnosis Affect My Employment?
Your Rights Under
the Equality Act 2010
Legal Protection
Epilepsy is covered under the Equality Act, which protects against workplace discrimination.
Reasonable Adjustments
Employers must make changes to help you work safely and effectively.
Risk Assessments
Employers may need to assess the safety of your role.
Disclosure
You're not required to disclose your epilepsy, but doing so can help your employer support you properly.
Job Refusal
Employers can only refuse employment if epilepsy presents a serious, justifiable risk in the role.
Things to Consider
Staff Training
How often and how severely you have seizures may affect job suitability.
Job Type
Some roles may carry more risks (e.g., working at heights or with heavy machinery).
Work Adjustments
Modifications to your environment or schedule may be needed.
Time Off
You may need leave for appointments or recovery, which should be supported.
Benefits
If you’re unable to work, you may be eligible for benefits like Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).