Barriers to employment for people with epilepsy can be many and vary depending on the type of epilepsy and the work environment size. The main barriers especially in SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) include:

  • Access to information. People with epilepsy often find it difficult to access information about available jobs because this information is not always available in accessible formats.
  • Negative attitudes. People with epilepsy often encounter prejudices and negative attitudes from employers and colleagues, which can negatively affect their professional career.
  • Lack of assistive technologies. People with epilepsy often need assistive technologies to carry out their work activities, but these technologies are not always available or accessible in work environments.
  • Inadequate training. People with epilepsy often do not have the opportunity to follow adequate training courses to prepare them for their desired professions, or do not have the specific training to use assistive technologies.
  • Physical accessibility. People with epilepsy often also encounter physical barriers in the workplace, such as escalators, too narrow doors, inaccessible toilets, which may prevent them from accessing the workplace or carrying out their work activities safely and independently.
  • Non-inclusive work environment. Companies that have not adopted inclusive policies and practices can make it difficult for people with epilepsy to feel accepted and valued, limiting their ability to participate fully in work and company life.
Source: How to make workplaces more inclusive for people, EpilipsyU, 2024

Research findings on the employment of people with epilepsy have highlighted some worrying trends. Firstly, research has shown that people with epilepsy have significantly higher unemployment rates than people without epilepsy. Secondly, people with epilepsy who do manage to find work are often underemployed or in lower paid jobs than their non-disabled counterparts.

Research has also identified some of the specific barriers that people with epilepsy face in their job search and professional career. The most common barriers include:

  • Prejudices and negative attitudes on the part of employers.
  • Lack of appropriate assistive technology.
  • Inadequate training.
  • Inaccessible working environment.
  • Poor company support policies.

Furthermore, research has shown that companies that promote the employment inclusion of people with epilepsy are more likely to have a more productive work environment, greater diversity and higher employee retention.

These research findings indicate the need for targeted actions to overcome barriers to employment for people with epilepsy and promote an inclusive and accessible work environment for all.

Now it’s your turn!

What sorts of actions could you think implementable in a SME, regarding specificness and needs of PwE to allow their optimal management?