It’s never right to use epilepsy to “go compare”
We are always quick to call out any publications or broadcasters who use epilepsy-related terms in an inappropriate and offensive manner, even when it is sloppy journalism and presenting and there is no deliberate intent to cause harm and upset.
Cat Deeley’s comments on ITV’s This Morning, when she likened her impromptu dancing style to having a seizure, and the BBC’s Unbelievable Truth panel game which concocted a lie about capturing an escaped tiger with photosensitive epilepsy by flashing lights at it, are points in kind.
Careless comments can perpetuate the notion that seizures are somehow trivial and that it’s fine to laugh about them. They aren’t and it isn’t.
But equally it is refreshing and noteworthy when a publisher gets it wrong, holds their hands up, apologises and puts it right. As was the case this week with the Telegraph Online’s review of Strictly’s Halloween special.
Offensive terminology
Writer Keith Watson described GoCompare celebrity, Wynne Evans, as looking like ‘an epileptic beef tomato’ as he danced a salsa on Saturday night with professional partner Katya Jones, both dressed as red devils.
Our thanks to one of our supporters, Marissa Godden who drew our attention to the inappropriate and offensive use of vocabulary. As someone who has had epilepsy since she was a child, she told us:
“For years I have suffered crude comments and discriminating comparisons to epilepsy from the public and in the media alike. I thought society was becoming more accustomed to people's disabilities and illnesses but it seems not, and the media still like to discriminate publicly about people like us. It is horrendous. When I read the article, I was left feeling very angry and dejected.”
Letters to the Telegraph
Marissa wrote to the Telegraph expressing her dismay. Our Chief Executive, Clare Pelham also wrote, telling the Telegraph:
“Epilepsy is a long-term health condition affecting 1 in 100 of us. Sadly, over a thousand people die in the UK every year from epilepsy. And many, many more live with the anxiety that a seizure may occur at the worst possible time-crossing the road, holding a kettle, carrying a baby. May I ask for your help in choosing words both wisely and kindly, reducing the stigma that is still problematic for people with epilepsy?”
We were thrilled when Marissa had a rapid response from the Telegraph’s legal and compliance team who reassured her that the term “epileptic” had been removed from the article. Furthermore, they said the author and editorial team have been reminded that the terms “epilepsy and epileptic” should only be used in the context of reporting on the disability and that to use those terms otherwise, as in this case, would be inappropriate and upsetting for those with this disability.
We would definitely get out our “10” paddle for that response. And well done to Marissa who brought the matter to the attention of the Telegraph, explaining from a personal perspective why words really matter.