Epilepsy and employment—employers' attitudes

The aim of this study was to examine the possible causes of employment difficulties amongst people with epilepsy by interviewing employers. It was hoped that the outcome of the study would complement the research already carried out in this field by concentrating on the attitudes and policies of employers. Due to the time limit it was decided that a small number (five) of local employers should be approached requesting an interview. The employers were randomly selected but were all large companies within varying industries. All employers approached agreed to participate in the study and interviews were arranged with welfare recruitment staff. The interviews were limited to 45 minutes and concentrated on three main issues for discussion: disclosure, unemployment and improved relationship between employers and people with epilepsy. The outcome of the interviews was that the employers appeared to be rather unaware of the employment problems faced by people with epilepsy. As epilepsy is generally not a registered disability employers are unable to monitor their company's recruitment and promotion methods. It seems that line managers are left to decide on the employment of people with epilepsy often without even general awareness training on equal opportunities. Consequently their need to meet targets and their personal attitude to epilepsy determine the employment chances for people with epilepsy. Only with legislations protecting the interests of people with epilepsy can the unemployment figures be brought in line with the general population.