A new legal advice service has been launched to support people with epilepsy facing workplace disputes, following continued evidence of discrimination, low employment rates and poor understanding of reasonable adjustments.
The service is intended to provide clearer access to employment law advice when issues arise at work.
The initiative comes as government data shows people with epilepsy remain significantly underrepresented in employment, despite legal protections under equality law. Campaigners argue that fear of disclosure, stigma and inconsistent employer practice continue to limit opportunities and leave many workers vulnerable when health issues occur at work.
It is being positioned as both a support route for individuals and a way to improve employer awareness of legal responsibilities. It will focus on workplace disputes linked to disclosure, dismissal, adjustments and treatment following seizures.
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Partnership responds to discrimination and low employment rates
The service has been launched by epilepsy charity Epilepsy Action in partnership with law firm Slater and Gordon, which specialises in employment law. It will provide people with epilepsy access to legal guidance when workplace problems arise, alongside wider support from the charity’s helpline.
Epilepsy Action pointed to research showing widespread discrimination. One in three people with epilepsy reported being bullied at work, while six in ten said they had faced discrimination because of their condition. Government figures also show that only around a third of people with epilepsy are currently in employment.
Kathryn Hughes, helpline and support services manager at Epilepsy Action, said the charity continued to see workers losing jobs or opportunities linked to misunderstanding and stigma around the condition. “Too many people with epilepsy are still being overlooked or pushed out of work through no fault of their own,” she said. “This partnership will give people the confidence to stand up for their rights and support employers to build fairer more inclusive workplaces.”
Case highlights impact of dismissal after medical episode
The charity highlighted the experience of Louise, whose name has been changed to protect her identity. After completing a master’s degree in education, she secured her first teaching role in the UK but was dismissed weeks later after having a seizure at work.
Louise said fear of discrimination influenced her decision not to disclose her condition during recruitment. “I didn’t mention my epilepsy because I was scared I wouldn’t be given a chance,” she said. “Losing my job was devastating and it still affects me now.”
She said the dismissal had a lasting impact on her confidence and sense of worth, adding that access to specialist advice at the time would have made a significant difference.
Employers urged to understand legal duties
Peter Byrne, head of employment at Slater and Gordon, said employment law existed to protect workers with epilepsy and guide employers on fair treatment. “People with epilepsy should be supported in every way possible in the workplace,” he said. “Employment law exists to give them the protections they need and deserve.”
He said the partnership was intended to ensure advice reached people early and helped resolve issues before they escalated. “We are very pleased to partner with Epilepsy Action to ensure our specialist advice can reach as many people as possible and enable them to be confident and thrive in their careers,” he said.
Epilepsy Action said it would also work with employers to raise awareness of reasonable adjustments and inclusive practice, with the aim of improving job security and confidence for people with epilepsy. The service is available from January 13th via helpline 0808 800 5050.
