Campaigning

We campaign to improve the lives of everyone affected by epilepsy.

We work with healthcare professionals, politicians and the public to fight for the services, care and support that people with epilepsy need – and deserve.

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Manifesto 2024

Ahead of the general election we rounded up the issues that affect the 630,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK.

We are calling on the new government to address these issues and ensure that epilepsy is a priority in this parliament.

Find out more

At a glance

Current campaigns

Cost of living with epilepsy

We know that some people with epilepsy struggle to get and stay in employment, and have problems successfully claiming disability benefits.

With energy bills increasing and growing pressure on people’s finances, we are working to ensure that people with epilepsy get the help and support they need.

Take part in our latest campaign Cost of living support and advice
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Sodium valproate

Sodium valproate is a medicine used to treat epilepsy. For some people it might be the most effective epilepsy medicine.

However, sodium valproate carries a higher risk than other anti-seizure medications (ASMs) of causing birth defects and developmental problems in babies if taken during pregnancy.

We are campaigning to raise awareness of the risks and to ensure that women with epilepsy can make an informed decision about their treatment.

 

The campaign Results of our survey Our info on sodium valproate and pregnancy

Employment and epilepsy

Hidden disabilities, hidden talents – Government statistics show that people with epilepsy have one of the worst rates of employment amongst disabled people, despite the fact that for many there are few jobs that their epilepsy would prevent them from doing.

We are campaigning to change attitudes of employers and improve the employment support available to people with epilepsy.

The campaign Our information on epilepsy and work
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All food products containing CBD must apply for authorisation before they can be sold legally in the UK

Cannabis-based medicines

We know that for some people with epilepsy, cannabis-based medicines can be effective in controlling seizures.

We are campaigning for more research into cannabis-based medicines as well as for more people with epilepsy to be able to access these treatments.

The campaign Medical cannabis in the UK

Campaign for better services

Epilepsy Action are campaigning for better epilepsy health services for people with epilepsy.

There are 600,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK, but all too often they struggle to access the necessary health services.

Campaigning for better services Campaigning for better services in Northern Ireland Campaigning for better services in Wales
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Welfare and benefits

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit which helps with some of the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition.

However, many people with epilepsy are not getting the help and support they need through PIP. The current PIP assessment process is not working for people with epilepsy.

Welfare and benefits Our information on benefits Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and epilepsy

Campaign news

Read the latest campaign news