Raising awareness of seizure first aid on International Epilepsy Day

Epilepsy Society is pleased to be partnering with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, the organisation behind the sunflower lanyard, to mark International Epilepsy Day on 8 February 2021.

Living with a hidden disability has become even more challenging during the Covid-19 pandemic as people are asked to stay safe by socially distancing.

Many people with epilepsy worry that if they have a seizure in public, others may be reluctant to come to their aid.

This is why the Epilepsy Society and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, are joining forces to raise awareness of seizure first aid to mark International Epilepsy Day on 8 February 2021.

Together we are running a week long campaign from 1-8 February to increase awareness and understanding of different seizure types and what people can do to help if they see someone having a seizure.

Calm, Cushion, Call

Clare Pelham, Chief Executive at the Epilepsy Society, said: “The key message that we want to get across is that it is actually very easy to support someone during a seizure, without putting yourself at risk.

“If you see someone having a seizure where they fall shaking to the ground, then follow our three simple steps, the three Cs: stay Calm, Cushion their head, Call 999.

“If it is safe to do so and will not put you at risk, remove the person’s mask as this will help with their breathing.

“Of course not all seizures are convulsive. A person may appear to zone out and be confused. But the message is still very simple: stay with them, talk gently, guide them away from danger. We are really thrilled to be partnering with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to share this important information.”